CAMPAIGNERS fighting development on a former garage site at Bower Hill have forced those behind the scheme to rethink their plans and reduce the number of properties on the site.
The original proposals mapped out plans to demolish the garages and replace them with eight affordable homes and eight parking spaces.
But, following a public consultation on June 18 at the Emmanuel Church, Fortis Living has redrawn the plans, reducing the number of homes to six with six parking spaces.
A total of 23 garages were still being used on the site – seven by Fortis tenants and 16 privately. They are now vacant after Fortis found alternative ones on the Chawson Estate for those who still needed them.
We reported back in April how people living near Bower Hill were unhappy about the plans and the way letters relating to the garages and the need for them to be vacated were worded with some accusing Fortis of ‘heavy-handed tactics’.
Duncan Smith, Fortis’ assistant director for growth and development, said: “Since that story was printed, we have met with the town council and residents and where possible we have incorporated their concerns in the new design.”
Another concern highlighted by residents as part of the consultation was drainage on the site.
Fortis added an ecological survey had been undertaken with no issues identified and a drainage strategy was currently underway that would incorporate on site water storage.
A planning application, based on the amended scheme, will now be submitted that Fortis hopes the town council will look favourably on.
The Standard asked Fortis about another garage site application for Pridzor Close. We were told the proposal, which was for two homes, has now gone to appeal and the housing association is awaiting the result.
