Controversial Redevelopment Plan Recommended For Approval
Written by HFM News on 3rd February 2021
The controversial plan to redevelop part of an elderly people’s housing scheme in Market Harborough is being recommended for the go-ahead.
16 bungalows will be demolished at Naseby Square, on the Southern Estate, if planning permission is granted to build 38 new affordable homes on the site.
There has been widespread opposition to the plan ever since it was first announced in 2018, when residents to be affected were sent a letter by their housing association out of the blue, and two petitions signed by over 800 people have been handed to Harborough District Council.
Concerns include breaking up the existing community at the site and traffic problems.
13 residents from bungalows that would be flattened have already been relocated to other properties within Market Harborough.
Harborough District Council, which is behind the plan, has sold land it owns at the site to Platform Housing Group, which owns the rest of it.
Dave Tomlin, from the Tenant Support Group, who has led the fight against the plan, spoke to Hfm:
The proposal also seeks permission to demolish an office, residents lounge,community hall and bungalow at No.87 Granville Street, and the conversion of No.21 Naseby Square (a bungalow) into a residents lounge, to serve the remaining residents of Naseby Square.
Bangalows will be demolished if the plan goes ahead
A Council planning document states: “The proposals provide an opportunity to deliver a high quality, durable and sustainable affordable housing scheme.
“The housing mix includes 1, 2, and 3 bed dwellings, which include 8no. bungalows; over 20 percent of the total number of dwellings proposed.
“The development proposals seek to utilise currently vacant land, underdeveloped private residential land, along with land currently accommodating affordable housing, that is no longer fit for purpose and nearing the end of its building life span.”
Marion Duffy, Platform’s Chief Operating Officer said: “We are continuing to undertake discussions with Harborough District Council regarding the future development of Naseby Square.
“We are committed to keeping up our ongoing programme of consultation with customers and as soon as any decisions are made we will update all those involved.”
Councillors will consider the plan next week.
