ITV teletext local news reports that the local government onbudsman is investigating Exeter City Councils designation of the County Ground as a brownfield site in planning terms rather than a greenfield site.
This makes an enormous difference in consideration of what may or may not be built on it, remember the CG reportedly is covered by covenant that says it has to be an open space or a sports facility.
Doesnt appear that way.
" DISMAY AS HOMES PLAN IS APPROVED
Furious Exeter residents last night rounded on planners after a scheme to build retirement flats on the County Ground rugby stadium was given the green light. The controversial application by Pegasus Retirement Homes for 53 apartments on part of the rugby ground was approved by just one vote.
About 20 protesters staged a demonstration outside the Civic Centre on Paris Street before the meeting.
They fear overdevelopment of the land, which is set to be vacated by the Exeter Chiefs rugby club this year, will lead to gridlock in St Thomas and parking chaos.
A Bellway Homes scheme to build another 136 homes on the land has already been granted outline permission.
Exeter City Council received more than 200 objections to the retirement flats proposal.
Campaigners had their fears confirmed when development control chairman Councillor Hazel Slack cast her deciding vote in favour of the scheme.
*** *******, leader of pressure group County Ground Concern, said he was "absolutely gutted" at what had been "a very sad day for St Thomas".
Mr *******, said: "Dozens of people in St Thomas feel passionate about this and have been ignored by a group of councillors who don't live in our area.
"They clearly don't care about the area or the people that live there.
"It is a very sad day for St Thomas because we have been abandoned by these people."
**** *****, of Church Road, said: "I think it is absolutely disgusting for the chairwoman, who was clearly in favour from the outset, to have the casting vote."
St Thomas Councillor Rob Hannaford said: "I am dismayed at the decision. It is very bad news for St Thomas."
Council officers had recommended the plan for approval and the site had been selected for housing development in the city's local plan. Councillor Michael Mills said that although the design was acceptable rather than inspiring, he did not believe the proposed building was too high or parking was inadequate.
During the meeting councillors were told by Pegasus' agent John Montgomery that there was a high demand for such housing in the area. "There is not going to be pressure on on-street parking in nearby roads," Mr Montgomery said."
Well for anyone living near the county ground I suggest you dig up your front gardens now, and put in a hardstanding asap-as came with our house when we bought it- cos its going to be a nightmare-is bad enough already never mind another 189 dwellings and visitors etc and Mr Montgomery is talking out his backside imo-and we are streets away!-Time will tell.......
Only person I can see being happy about this is our own Loramski barber at Speedway Barbers near the track who must be rubbing his hands with glee at the prospect of all those pensioners coming to the nearest barbers to get their hair cut-eh Andy? ;D ;D
