OUTRAGED Aston Fields residents have launched a campaign against a proposal to build 12 new affordable home in Vicarage Close.
So far almost 150 signatures have been collected on a petition against the application put forward by Bromsgrove District Housing Trust (bdht) on June 24.
Annette O’Flynn who has owned the home next to the site, which is currently occupied by a number of garages, for almost 20 years is spearheading the campaign.
Mrs O’Flynn said the residents were currently setting up Aston Fields Matters – a campaign group which would contain around ten representatives from each street in the area.
The proposal, for the mainly brownfield site which backs onto the rear gardens of number 20 to 32 of Dragoon Fields, includes a mix of two-storey maisonettes and two-storey houses for two people – each built in semi-detached and short terraces and with their own car parking spaces.
Many concerns raised by residents included the increase in traffic and congestion the development would bring and the further effects on parking issues which were already there.
One resident said four of the closest houses, in Vicarage Gardens, had Juliet balconies off the master bedrooms and, if the go ahead was given, the new homes would violate the privacy of anyone using them.
Not only this, but the new occupants in the first floor flats would also be able to look down into the surrounding houses and gardens.
One resident complained about the westerly view, from his home, of the sun setting through the trees and how it would be replaced by rented flats and the corner of his garden would borders compost bins affecting his quality of life.
The developer, bdht, is aiming to achieve high-levels of long-term sustainability, meeting the needs and expectations of the community.
Gary Fowler, bdht’s development director, said: “The application has been made in the normal way and the process, which is administered by the district council, includes the full and comprehensive consultation with the general public, in particular those specifically affected by the proposed development.
“Traffic considerations are part of the consultation and planning approval process and will be considered in full by the planning committee.”
Anyone wanting to find out ‘more about the campaign or the Aston Fields Matters group can call Mrs O’Flynn on 07976 194851 or email Stephen O’Flynn at [email protected]
Those wanting to view the application can visit www.bromsgrove.gov.uk and, after accessing the planning application section, can search for the number 14/0475
