Goldhawk Road Developments
So...another high-density development is proposed within a conservation area, a few hundred yards from the mooted Allied Carpets high-rise. In the past couple of years, four other high-density, mixed usage developments have been constructed within approximately a mile and a half of both the suggested sites. Given that our local schools, doctors and dentists are oversubscribed and groaning under the pressure, would it not be wiser to invest in our local infrastructure rather than constantly slap up new housing? Better still, refurbish the vacant housing stock that already exists in the borough - or would this result in less profit for developers? For, however cosy their stated intentions and murmurs of 'social' and 'affordable' housing, developers are in this to make a profit (or at least to pay their directors fat salaries) and neither scheme would enhance or benefit our already crowded community. As for 'affordable' housing and part buying schemes - they are still too expensive and therefore rarely benefit those key workers such as teachers and nurses who are most in need. Given the current parlous state of the housing market, is it even wise to be contemplating new-build developments that might then stand empty, blighting the area and attracting the usual security problems that beset empty properties? At least the Goldhawk Road site has already had residential usage - the Allied Carpets site has been commercial premises for many years and its change to high-density residential usage would have a severe impact on an already congested corner. Do the developers really think that a car park with an entrance from Greenside Road will not significantly add to the increasing traffic caused by the Westfield Centre, the Polish Church, the extended congestion zone et al? Greenside Road is a narrow, residential street and already often at a standstill. And what about the chaos caused by vehicles on site while works take place? I have just received a letter from the Council Planning Dept. inviting comments/objections to the scheme before 20th June and will be responding with the points I have outlined above. I will also be objecting to any development at the Goldhawk Road site on the same grounds. We need investment in infrastructure to enhance and sustain our existing community before we bow to developers' demands to make a fat profit at the expense of local residents.
Amanda Lees ● 6164d2 Comments