Woking councillors are the latest exponents of populist planning. Plans for a 366 flat tower of 28 storeys, approved on a second appeal has angered Cllr Ann-Marie, leader of Woking council. “I am bitterly disappointed with the outcome ……. . Local residents do not wish to see further high rise development and this appeal has … Continue reading Is the law supreme?

The new prime minister has assured the Conservative MP for Aldridge-Brownhills Wendy Morton his government will protect the green belt and and the policy is to adopt a ‘brownfield first’ strategy. She is worried saying ‘we are at risk of 8000 new homes being dumped in the constituency’. The PM wisely adds that it is … Continue reading Brownfield first?

Increasing densities in urban areas in theory makes sense. But reality is tough for local councils and residents on the ground. Proposals to increase density on a small, 6 unit residential site in The Close, Sandhurst are heavily criticised by neighbours and local leaders. Citing increased traffic, insufficient parking, impact on trees, overlooking, overshadowing, overbearing … Continue reading Density, Democracy =Local Control

The former chancellor of the exchequer, Philip Hammond was candid on Sunday’s Kuenssberg show. There is conflict between providing 300,000 new homes a year and the truth, many Conservative in rural areas do not want the homes near them. He added, everyone wants a solution, provided it is not on their doorstep. He says the … Continue reading A hugh challenge. And a solution.