A RALLYING call has been issued for residents to attend a town meeting to find out what a major housing blueprint means for Evesham.
The Vale of Evesham Civic Society has called a public meeting from 7pm on Thursday (November 12) at the Northwick Hotel on Waterside,
The South Worcestershire Development Plan (SWDP) will be discussed and how it is linked to proposed housing sites on both Abbey Road and Cheltenham Road.
Chaired by Dr Sue Ablett, who recently headed the Bell Tower appeal campaign, the meeting will explain how the SWDP will influence future housing developments and employment sites until 2030.
Members of Evesham Town Council will give their position as well as opponents to the housing blueprint such as Keep Evesham Green (KEG) and the Civic Society.
Experts will also be there to discuss any issues with the town’s infrastructure that may arise as a result of the SWDP.
Civic Society secretary John Goodwin, said: “There seems to be confusion on the extent and location of the proposed houses and offices off Abbey Road Evesham.
“Hallam Land’s outline application is for the west side of Abbey Road not the Crown Meadow or east side of Abbey Road and is for 380 houses and some office accommodation.
“South Worcestershire Development Plan proposes to allow 250 properties on that site; the plan also impacts on Cheltenham Road with 500 proposed in that area.
“These proposals can be viewed online at www.swdevelopmentplan.org and part of the plan covers the future allocation of land for development and employment in Evesham and surrounding villages.
“These proposals are on top of sites already started or for which planning approvals have been given,” he added.
A panel will answer any questions that members of the public may have, although questions must be e-mailed in advance to [email protected].
Meanwhile, a petition set up to oppose the proposed development by Hallam Land Management has attracted 695 signatures.
The application by Hallam Land Management is for 380 homes and other associated infrastructure.
As well as the new homes, up to 2,500sq metres of business land will be provided as well as open space for sports and children’s play areas and a community orchard.
The developers also hope to improve cycle and pedestrian access as well as create new vehicular and pedestrian access off Abbey Road.
Visit www.change.org and search for ‘Stop Hallam Land Management building on Abbey Road/Boat Lane’ for more information on the petition.
