South Cerney residents have their say on housing proposal (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

South Cerney residents have their say on housing proposal

5:00pm Friday 3rd February 2012 in News

RESIDENTS in South Cerney were given the chance to have their say on a potentially massive new housing development in their village last week.

Harrow Estates, part of property developers Redrow Homes, has been granted outline planning permission for a development of up to 150 homes, and presented their proposals at an exhibition at the village hall on January 24.

The plans involve around 30 affordable homes and a new community hall to the south-east of the village, on a brownfield site off The Limes.

Representatives from Redrow were on hand to chat to residents, and visitors were invited to submit their comments on the plans.

South Cerney parish council chairman Mike Stuart said the council had consulted with Redrow, and were in full support of the plans.

“All of us would have liked to have left it as it was, but that’s just not realistic.

“We’re particularly excited about the new community sports ad youth centre – It’s going to be a marvellous development for the community.”

South Cerney resident Jennifer Roberts said was pleased to get the chance to have her say on the proposal.

“We need the houses in the village and you’ve got to go with what’s needed, she added.

“It’s certainly progress, but it’s important that we get to have our say on it.”

Not everyone is so supportive of the plans, however.

One woman who has lived in the village for more than 30 years said she believed that most residents were against the proposal.

“My understanding is that 80-90 per cent of people are against it, said the woman,” who asked not to be named.

“I can’t understand what made the parish council agree to it.

“There’s going to be some serious problems with traffic if this happens.”

Redrow design director Trevor Wright, who is leading the project, said he was pleased with the interest shown in the proposals.

“We are working closely with the Parish Council in respect of our proposals and especially in connection with the location of the planned community hall that forms part of the overall scheme,” he added.

“However, we are particularly keen to obtain local feedback on this aspect of the proposals as we recognise the importance of this matter.” He added anyone who has any further questions about the proposal can call Redrow on 0800 298 7040.