E.31/17
It was
noted that two public questions had been received as
follows:
From Mr Steve Arblaster:
Within the
Alternative Concept Option there is still a “potential
community facility”.
One
of the key items identified in the independent survey
was:
A
significant area of green space should be included on the quayside,
plus dedicated space for creativity (workshops, studios) and
community use (eg picnic area, wide
promenade, community rooms for youth groups/public gatherings/
concerts/exhibitions). To neglect
these in
favour of residential buildings will not benefit the current
community.
I
argue that this theme is essential to support the key objectives of
the master plan. Failure to quantify this now, showing empathy with
all those you represent, will adversely affect the chances of
improving local support for the project.
Can
you assure us all that in parallel with the supply of truly
affordable and community housing, that the above, via proper and
thorough engagement with the entire community, will be a priority
over the controversial 28 residential apartments at the southern
end of the quay?
If
you are unable to do so, please can you explain how you think that
the predicted marginal return on these 28 apartments, and the
permanent loss of this public open space, could ever benefit the
South Hams, let alone Kingsbridge.
From
Kingsbridge Town Council:
Given the
Quayside report at 4.7 states that “neither scheme is
currently viable (…) when considering delivery risks”
will Members support the wishes of Kingsbridge Town Council, and
80% of the Kingsbridge community, that the only sensible route
forward is to pursue your proposal at 7 for an Exit
Strategy?
In acknowledging these questions, the Leader
requested that item 6 – Kingsbridge Quayside Masterplan
Update, be presented to Members, prior to responding to the
questions presented. He felt that the
debate would allay some of the concerns raised.
Following the presentation of Item 6 –
Kingsbridge Quayside Masterplan, Mr Arblaster felt that his question had not been
sufficiently responded to and he sought further detail.
The Leader then stated that the green space area
referred to in the question would not go forward as it was part of
Area 2 that had now been removed. In
terms of the part of the question relating to housing, the Leader
confirmed that this would be a community led project and in
consultation with the community. It
would be important to ensure that there were people to take on the
houses built. In addition, development
on Area 3 would be in consultation with the Planning
department.
Mr Arblaster then asked
how the people in the houses would be
‘entertained’. Another
Member responded that the area set aside as such had now been
removed following the consultation exercise.
The Senior Specialist Assets added that officers
would be working with Kingsbridge Town Council and there would be
an element of managing expectations.
Cllr Chris Povey,
Kingsbridge Town Council thanked the Leader for his response and
stated that the Town Council would be open ...
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