Wigley’s proposals for the regeneration of the old Sandy Lane Bus Depot and Kalmar Climax site have taken a step nearer with the submission of an outline planning application for the development.
According to the developer, “the proposals are designed to transform this historic industrial site into a vibrant new neighbourhood for living, working, culture and leisure.” The development includes the historic Daimler Powerhouse.
The developer says that the regeneration of this site is designed to:
- Provide much needed new homes
- Regenerate 7 acres of industrial estate into a vibrant community
- Create new enterprise units and co-working opportunities
- Develop new pedestrian and cycle routes to the canal and city beyond
- High-quality landscaping and vibrant outdoor spaces for residents
- Creation of new habitats to enhance local biodiversity
The submission follows what the developer describes as a successful programme of stakeholder engagement and community consultation. The Wigley Group undertook a programme of public consultation with the local community.
Over 2,000 households and businesses were consulted on the proposals, with people given the opportunity to provide their feedback and get in touch with the project team if they wished to discuss the plans in more detail.
The Wigley Group says that it has received 66 responses of which 67% were in favour of the plans, 30% unsure and only 3% objecting. Supportive comments included the reduction of HGV traffic on Sandy Lane, the need for a run down location to be redeveloped, and it being far preferable to building on Green Belt land.
You can look at the planning application here.
Yes we do need more homes but not apartment blocks of M.O. Family homes and suitable properties for folk to downsize to release more reasonable family housing with gardens. What about the provision of schools, (and teachers) community venues, recreation areas, all with easy access to good 24/7 public transportation. Not everyone can or wants to, walk or ride a bike. Mobility scooters are going to be more and more popular with the need for control, a lot more consideration and thought about the people who worked hard, (now retired) to make this city great and not to sideline them as this City of Culture (Cocup) year has .
Only give planning permission for a whole community provision with a complete long term future . No short term rental let’s for buy to let investors.