A resident has warned that the redevelopment of a Garston estate will cause “untold misery” for disabled people.
The plans for Kytes Drive – an estate originally built to house veterans and disabled people – were approved during a Watford Borough Council (WBC) Development Management Committee meeting on Tuesday, March 4.
The proposal includes the demolition of the existing 44 bungalows to make way for 63 new houses and a three-storey block with 71 flats.
Nick Hodgskin, head of regeneration for developer Anchor, said: “We’re delighted planning permission has been granted. The regeneration of Kytes Drive will create more and better affordable housing for older people in the local community.
“The improved, energy efficient homes will double the amount of affordable housing on the site, providing new homes to existing residents and much-needed new homes for many others, including those with disabilities and veterans.
“Existing residents have helped shape the development through consultation events, design workshops and regular liaison throughout the planning process and all our existing residents will be offered a new home.
“We fully take on board the feedback received as part of the planning process and will reflect further on how we continue to work with existing residents to make this process as smooth as possible.”
Residents were encouraged to voice their concerns at the WBC meeting, which included traffic and parking issues, pressure on schools and GPs, and the loss of green spaces.
The estate was first constructed in the 1950s, comprising bungalows set around Kytes House, to provide accessible accommodation for qualifying ex-servicepeople.
After the meeting, Lorna Campbell, daughter of a Kytes Drive resident, alleged that there were insufficient guarantees regarding the long-term security of displaced residents. As a result, she and affected residents will discuss the possibility of a Judicial Review with Anchor and WBC.
Before the meeting, GARSTONnews spoke to Kytes Drive resident Bob Sparkes.
He said: “If it does go ahead, it is going to cause untold misery to many serious disabled people.
“My wife is a hemiplegic wheelchair user and registered blind. Her whole world is her home. She knows where things are and how to get around. Plus, in the 40 years living here, it’s adapted to her needs. She is just one of those who will find it near impossible to manage.”
WBC has been contacted for comment.
Photo credit: Pegasus Group
0 Comments