Woodlands Ward Councillors have given their backing to residents who have raised objections to a proposed development in Allesley Green. The application to build five new dwellings on green space sandwiched between Park Hill Lane and the A45 has been widely criticised with access and road safety being chief amongst the concerns.
A new road connecting to ‘High Beech’ has been suggested as the access point. But critics say the narrow entrance raises concerns about pedestrian safety as the design lacks a designated footpath area. They argue the width of the proposed access is inadequate for a two-way road with an accompanying footpath, compromising safety. There are further concerns that emergency services would struggle to access the site if needed along with refuse collection vehicles.
The development plan suggests potential damage to trees with Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) situated between High Beech and the development site. The impact on these trees, essential for the local environment, has not been appropriately addressed in the plans.
It’s not the first time developers have sought to build on the site. A similar application was withdrawn in 2021 and another similar proposal was rejected by planners last year.
Cllr Gary Ridley has started a petition opposing the plans. Commenting he said: “This development, as currently proposed, threatens both the safety and character of Allesley Green. Imagine fire engines or ambulances trying to navigate that bottleneck in an emergency – it's unthinkable. And let's not forget the daily grind of bin lorries and deliveries adding to the chaos. This isn't just about inconvenience, it's about the very safety of our residents. So I've referred this application to the Planning Committee where residents' voices can be heard loud and clear.”
Cllr Julia Lepoidevin said: “We can't simply bulldoze our way through such a tight space for the sake of a few more houses. The current plan has not addressed safety concerns seem cavalier about the impact on our precious green spaces. TPO trees are there for a reason, they're the lungs of our community. This development needs to respect the existing environment, not trample all over it.
Fellow Woodlands Ward Councillor, Peter Male, added: “The safety of Allesley Green residents is paramount, and this development proposal falls woefully short on that front. The proposed access point through a narrow, footpath-only entrance is an accident waiting to happen. There is also a clear impact for much loved local trees, some of which are supposed to be protected.”
Further links
Further details of the plans are available here: Coventry City Council, 2024: https://planandregulatory.coventry.gov.uk/planning/index.html?fa=getApplication&id=270097
Cllr Gary Ridley has set up a petition against the current proposal on behalf of residents which can be accessed here: Coventry City Council, 2024 http://tinyurl.com/yfkzpdvr
