Why more? (From Herald Series)

Why more?

9:00am Wednesday 24th June 2009

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Sir, As I was preparing to give my comments on the new plans for Wantage Market Place, I came across a planning application for the old H and L site in Limborough Road to change the use to two restaurants and 14 flats.

Given the economic situation and the state of businesses in the square, I cannot imagine that the food outlets will view the proposal with enthusiasm. To place such land use so near to residential properties that include a block of retirement flats will surely upset local people due to the increased noise, litter and cooking smell, not to mention the increase in evening traffic.

It appears that food decks will overlook the brook and that could affect the privacy of residents in Bridle Terrace as well as encouraging more foraging ducks.

The plans do not appear to give the opening hours for the restaurants but rumour has it that one could be 24 hours which would have a real impact on local residents.

From virtually no flats in Wantage ten years ago, we appear to have gone to a surfeit with more coming on stream. So, why are 14 more needed whose patio areas will overlook the recent developments in Smith’s Wharf?

The proposed block appears to be three to four storeys high and could, therefore, constitute the proverbial ‘blot on the landscape’.

Wantage has seen the demise of the Market Square over recent years with much hand wringing and column inches.

Surely, if there was a need for such developments, they would take place in the empty units in both the square and surrounding roads, and would not conflict with the planning ideas for this already rundown area?

Wantage, it appears, is a developers’ paradise, but for some residents, a nightmare.

J Preston Donnington Place Wantage

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