Lib Dems Block Plans For Overdevelopment

10.18.54am UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 16th Aug 2004

Lib Dem Borough Councillors have successfully blocked plans by developers Twigden Homes Ltd/Marshalls Motor Holdings to build 87 homes on the site of Marshalls Garage on Goldington Road.

Following discussion at Monday night's Planning Committee, members voted to refuse the planning application on the grounds that Twigdens' proposal represented an excessive housing density, insufficient amenity space and poor design. The proposal had caused concern amongst many local residents, who contacted the De Parys Lib Dem Councillor David Sawyer to register their objections. The decision will be seen as a blow to developers across the Borough who seek to bypass recommended housing densities, and a victory for concerned local residents who were opposed to the level of development.

Borough Councillor David Sawyer who spoke at the meeting said:

"Local residents do not object to the principle of development on the Marshalls site. In fact, they accept that a site in this position is likely to have a reasonably high housing density, including smaller units, to enable people from a range of backgrounds to live within easy reach of the Town Centre and public transport. But what they, quite correctly, insist on is that a fair balance is achieved between the desire of the developer for as many houses and flats as possible and the quality of amenity and design that a prominent site merits. The development must make an attractive addition to the local area, taking full account of the safety and environmental concerns of existing residents."

It is expected that Twigden will now appeal against the decision.

ENDS