Update #15
The developers have just submitted revised plans for the St Christopher's site.
We really hoped that, having heard the concerns of HUNDREDS of local people, independent experts and national bodies, the developers would completely rethink their approach to the site and deliver radical and meaningful changes.
Sadly, that does not appear to have happened.
From their headline claims, it seems there are no substantial alterations and only a few minor tweaks:
Only one block has been reduced by a storey. There will still be four huge blocks of flats, completely out of character with a conservation area.
No increase in parking spaces - and we all know the huge impact that will have on traffic and safety in surrounding streets.
Overall number of housing units only reduced from 122 to 116 - that’s just six fewer! The scheme remains overwhelming, overbearing and densely populated.
We can see no mention of affordable housing. It remains a luxury housing development.
No commitment to honouring the site’s Special Educational Needs legacy - just a vague mention which amounts to occasional use of a room rather than any significant SEND provision which Bristol desperately needs.
Despite some concessions, we remain very concerned about the overall environmental impact and loss of key trees and biodiversity.
We’re relieved the developers have finally accepted that there should be no vehicular access on Etloe Road near the nursery. But we know many people will be dismayed by plans to create a new road into the site via the Glen.
All the new documents went on the council’s planning portal this morning. Rest assured, the team at SCAN will be reading every single one of them to fully understand the implications.
We will give you our thoughts as soon as we can.
What happens now?
The whole consultation process starts again! If you want to influence the decision-making, you will need to have your say via Bristol City Council’s planning portal again - even if you did it last time. Have a look at the plans here - you can register a comment right now if you wish.
It’s a shame this new consultation period falls over the Christmas and the New Year period - when we should all be enjoying the festive season - but it’s crucial that the community finds time to respond to these ‘revised’ plans. You don't have to write much - just a few bullet points is enough. We will let you know the closing date for comments and be in touch as soon as we know more.
Thank you all for your ongoing support.
