Anger over plans for new homes on former Nuneaton bowling green

[dutchman]

One objector said that 'Galley Common is losing its village feel and environment'



A plan to build new homes on a former Nuneaton bowling green have been met with a wave of objections. However, Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council looks poised to give the proposal the go-ahead.

The plan asks for the green light to build nine dwellings, an access road, car parking and associated infrastructure together with vehicular entrance at the Haunchwood Institute off Valley Road.

In the planning application it explains the site is located to the west of the Haunchwood Social Club. Initially the plan was for ten homes but due to presence of trees along the western boundary and flood zones, it led to it being changed to nine.

"The site was previously used as a bowling green; however it is understood that this green has not been used for approximately 8 years," the plan states.

The plan was put out to public consultation and it led to 16 objections from 15 addresses, along with one objection from an unknown address and a letter of comment from a previous councillor.

But planning officers at the Town Hall are recommending the proposal is given the go-ahead. In a report to the borough council's planning committee, it explains that the under the current Borough Plan, which is under review, 'weight' is given in support of applications on sites that will help to address short-term housing supply needs.

In regards to loss of green space, it states: "The other green at the club would be retained and therefore it is considered that adequate alternative facilities are available locally. In addition, given that the green has not been in use for 8 years, it is considered that this demonstrates that that there is no longer the demand to use both greens at the Haunchwood Club.

"Sport England were consulted with as part of the application’s assessment process, however as the green has not been used in approximately 8 years, they have not provided a site specific response, nor have they raised an objection to the proposal."

It also explains that access is proposed directly from Valley Road via a bellmouth junction and Warwickshire County Council Highways have no objection to the design and layout of the access and internal road network.

"A Road Safety Audit has also been provided this has been reviewed and considered to be acceptable by the Highway Authority," the application adds.

But the final decision on whether the plan is given the go-ahead will be made by members of the council's planning committee. They will meet on Tuesday, April 8 at the Town Hall.