joan holkar
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Re:Piers Gough - 2006/01/08 22:43
A few points, in no particular order:
1.Re the discussion about density. Piers Gough is correct in saying that Lewes hasn't a low-density pattern of occupation, but neither does it have a density as high as the figure he proposes. The govt guidelines for housing density also are not as high as Angel Properties propose.
2.Given the fulfilment of the Angel Properties plan, Lewes Town would gain an additional 10% population at least! It would have an enormous impact on so many aspects of Lewes, as others have mentioned - school places, medical/dental provision, public transport requirements, and not least on the availablity of water. We still have a hosepipe ban in place, as I understand it, since the beginning of last summer. Have Southern Water been asked whether they can supply 10% more fresh water to the town? And deal with 10% more sewage/waste water?
3.The majority of the proposed buildings would be 5 stories above ground level, with 'towers' up to 10 stories - far taller than County Hall.I think that whenever the next round of plans appear, Angel Properties should be obliged to show a computer mock-up illustrating exactly how their proposed development would impact visually on the town from various sightlines.
4. Re social/affordable housing - I have not seen or heard of any absolute commitment by Angel Properties to this. The developer of the Malling Brooks area, apparently, although theoretically required by Lewes District Council policy to provide a percentage of social/affordable housing, explained that it would not be profitable to do so. Given the house prices obtainable in Lewes, any developer would have to be extraordinarily philanthropic to provide social/affordable housing if they can get away with not doing so.
5. Lewes is a town, not a dormitory suburb. Towns have commercial and industrial areas. If the present industrial area is shabby perhaps that is because its future has hung in the balance for so long. The area provides employment for local people. If places are to be provided on the eastern side of the river for these businesses to relocate to, is there a guarantee that they will not have to meet any extra costs? Or might some, if not all, of them be forced to close due to increased rental costs?
6. There are an enormous number of points to consider in a development of this size. It's impact won't only be the provision of river walkways, with people sitting outside pavement cafes under trees before visiting a brand new arts centre!
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