A new block of flats at the site of some demolished garages have been approved – despite claims the scheme “seems insane”.
Bucks Council has permitted plans by Mr Gill relating to the former garages at the end of Laurels Road, and to the rear of 49 and 51 Heathway, in Iver Heath.
Original plans were for five flats. Amended plans detail the ‘construction of a block of four flats, with 11 parking spaces and some landscaping’.
The gated site on Laurels Road
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Objections received in relation to the original plans cited “traffic concerns”, “parking congestion”, loss of light and privacy, and “overlooking”.
During a South Bucks Area Planning Committee, Cllr Paul Griffin restated the concerns of locals, which he described as “great in number”.
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“They feel this is going to be an eyesore, it’s going to look into their gardens,” said Cllr Griffin.
“They feel it’s overdevelopment for the area and a great many have a very, very sincere and sensible concern – if you’ve ever driven down Laurels Road – it would be almost impossible to get an articulated (lorry) or HGV down there without damaging most of the vehicles already parked on the other pavement.
“The road is extraordinarily narrow and in my own car I pulled up twice as someone came towards me that I couldn’t see.
“From a practicality perspective, it seems insane. I do think it’s bordering on overdevelopment for the area.”
Cllr Wendy Matthews added: “Parking in the area is absolutely dire. It’s impossible to get down those roads to access this site.
“Some of those garages were used for parking, and people also parked in that area so there is a big concern.”
However, officers say: “Overall, it is considered that the proposal would not adversely impact upon the amenities of neighbouring properties.”
Cllr David Anthony proposed a motion to approve, seconded by Cllr Guy Hollis.
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