At last, as a result of funding from George Wimpey as part of their contribution to the local community in conjunction with the Holt Lane Development, we are now able to implement the scheme for the improvement of the landscaping of Grand Parade which was endorsed by the Annual Village Meeting some time ago. This exciting scheme will consist of new soft landscaping created by local designer Rachel Burbidge with a central mosaic designed by Maggy Howarth. Consultation with businesses in Grand Parade has taken place and only minor inconvenience to shops and parking is likely whilst the work is in progress between late August and early October.
A developer recently applied for permission to build eleven dwellings next to and in the garden of the listed building “The Holt.” The proposal was totally out of keeping with the area and in local opinion would represent architectural vandalism of the setting of the listed building. Following substantial opposition from local residents and the Parish Council the developers have withdrawn the proposal. This indicates that they recognised that the scheme would be refused by Hart and would not be likely to succeed on appeal.
Hart District Council has withdrawn their threat to close the Hook Public Conveniences and will continue to fund them at District level.
Residents of Alderwood Drive and Oaktree Drive were recently evacuated as a security precaution during a fire. We all owe a big “Thank You” to those involved particularly Hart District Council for the emergency planning, The Raven Hotel for providing a roof to shelter under and videos for the children, the Emergency Services for their superb handling of the situation and residents for their patience and understanding.
Development of the Foundry site is moving ahead and Barratt Homes have now been able to provide on-site parking for their contractors, and have put a procedure in place to control site traffic so as to avoid lorries parking on the A30 whilst they wait to deliver materials.
Reading Road has now been resurfaced and permanent traffic calming measures will be installed once the top dressing has settled and we have agreed the final position of the build-out near Goose Lane with Hampshire Highways.
George Wimpey and David Wilson Homes intend to jointly develop the second phase of the Holt Park Development for which outline Planning was granted in November 2000 and they will submit a detailed Planning Application in early July. The detailed plans will be on display in the Community Centre on Tuesday 15th July from 6.30 to 7.30 pm and representatives of the developers and Parish Councillors will be on hand to answer questions.
Antony Hunter