Like me, you may have very recently received an invitation to attend a "Public Consultation" by Barratt Developments PLC. It would seem that they think they have got their hands on options to develop the land that currently is the site of Alexander House Care Home for elderly people.
For your information, the "consultation" is taking place on Monday 3rd December from 2.30pm to 8.30pm at the Armstrong Hall. So, six days notice of the intention to consult, and one further week before the consultation closes on 10th December.
Since when did Barratts ever listen to the views of local residents in any meaningful way that would make a difference to their intentions to develop? But apparently, they say, "Your opinion matters."
This proposal is part and parcel of the Park Farm development project. In order to deliver the required bus link, that will render the Park Farm site even remotely more sustainable, this plot of land would appear to be the only option available to them. STGH have consistently argued that Park Farm is a ludicrous location for development, and this latest intrigue only reinforces those claims. If new housing is not beneath the floodwaters, it will be isolated and cut off from the town centre, and highly unsustainable.
If a link road was ever cut across to Alexandra Way, the Care Home would presumably have closed? Being located on public/SG land, presumably also, there would be an obligation to put the land up for open tender? Why do Barratts presume that they would win the bid? What deals have been done behind closed doors, yet again by South Gloucestershire planners and politicians, to further their own ends, rather than to serve the local residents whom they supposedly represent?
Park Farm was surrendered up to developers, against sound judgement and without local endorsement. Over 700 people represented against the decision when the Core Strategy was up for public scrutiny, but to little avail. (More opposing representations than for any other site in South Gloucestershire.)
The latest rumours are that Morton Way North will soon follow - delivered to developers, once again against the force of local wishes.
Do you wish to have your say, and like Canute long ago, attempt to hold back the rising tide? Doors open at 2.30pm.
GarethD
on behalf of STGH
.
Hi Gareth,
ReplyDeleteJust come from the meeting!
Crazy Crazy. So the new "Academy" don't want the bus route out through their land to Park Road due to "security & safety" issues. So SGCC scrabble round for an alternative and decide they can sell Alexander Way care home land (hopefully to Barratts) so Barratts can build the extra 100 houses for Phase 4.
Alexander Way is already a nightmare for parking. How can a bus possibly fit down it?
Can't we apply for the land to village green or common land as kids have played on it for years.
Also, do you know what plans SGCC/Thornbury Council have for the £Ms fund from the building of Park Farm? Extra house in Thornbury should surely mean that the town benefits from the money with better or new facilities.
Rant over!
Simon