Brook row babbles (From Stroud News and Journal)

Brook row babbles

RELATIONSHIPS between Greens and Stroud Creamery developers look set to sour after politicians accused architects of missing a golden opportunity to open up the buried brook that runs under the site.

Cllr Sarah Lunnon (Green), has slammed the development, arguing more could be done while the application is on hold for two-months to allow for a flood risk survey to be carried out.

She has claimed the 50-home development on the corner of Lansdown and Slad Road falls down on a number of Green principles.

But developers Newland Homes have hit back, arguing their plans are in keeping with the site.

Cllr Lunnon said: "This development seems to be a choice between an impoverished reference to traditional architecture or plantations of brick and garages.

"It could be so much more. "The local plan requires that Slad Brook be opened up when this site is re-developed.

"It now appears from the plans that half the brook will still be sealed underground. "This would be a great shame.

"It is a wonderful opportunity for the developers to restore one of our local brooks and improve local wildlife of the area."

She said more should be done to promote renewable energy in the homes to combat global warming and a looming oil crisis.

"The houses we build now will have to cope with a different world in 30 years' time when oil will run out," said Cllr Lunnon.

"It is also disappointing to see yet another development that doesn't have anything like enough affordable homes.

"We urgently need to give a much higher priority to insisting on higher quotas of affordable homes in new developments."

John McCreadie, joint managing director of Newland Homes, said: "Our scheme has gone through various public consultations including door-step discussions with neighbours and a town council-run public presentation.

"At the last planning meeting we were commended by councillors for listening and revising our proposals accordingly.

"We are very pleased with the amended scheme which is attractive, fits in with the local vernacular and will be a positive contribution to the built environment.

"We have the support of many neighbours that are keen to have this derelict factory site redeveloped at the earliest opportunity.

"The planning officer has confirmed to councillors that it complies with their Local Plan Policies, including affordable housing, and has recommended it for permission.

"We have issued a "Green Policy" strategy for the development and feel that the proposed opening up of the Slad Brook and its associated landscaped open space, in the heart of the site, will be a significant natural feature that benefits both the public, residents and local wildlife."

SB