| Original Message |
Rob
Posted May 1, 2004 11:19 AM
www.theherald.co.uk/14834.shtml - 23k - 26 Apr 2004
The Editor, The Herald
200 Renfield street,
Glasgow G2 3QB
Dear Sir,
Planning Applications and Appeals
Councillor Robert MacBean is absolutely right that there is a lack of understanding by the public of the planning system. (Letters, April 23) There are plenty of opportunities for the public to comment on both plans and applications. A problem only arises when the agreed plans and the legitimate objections of protestors are swept aside for reasons which remain a mystery. Some environmental campaigns have been dragging on for years because private developers and local authorities with almost limitless resources at their disposal are hoping to wear down local ciommunities through attrition and fatigue, rather than the strength or validity of their arguments.
Cavalry Park is a scenic part of the Kelvin valley, is designated Green belt and is an integral part of the ancient Colzium estate. Yet a 1998 reporters inquiry decision, and Local Plan support, for the continuing Green Belt designation of Cavalry Park has been ignored by the planners and elected councillors, who have done everything possible to hand the land over to housing developers, despite overwhelming local opposition.
A report to North Lanarkshire Council dated 2nd Feb 2004 shows that North Lanarkshire has 414 vacant and derelict sites covering 1509.25 ha - the largest surplus of any Council in Scotland. 3.2% of North Lanarkshire’s total area and 12.8% of North Lanarkshire’s urban area is vacant and derelict. North Lanarkshire contains 30% of all the vacant and derelict land in the Glasgow and Clyde Valley area. Over 50% of this land is capable of being developed over the next five years.
The Regional and Local plans make a clear preference for the use of derelict, vacant and brownfield sites over Greenfield and Green Belt land, and state that areas of scenic, heritage and wildlife interest are to be preserved. Furthermore, the planners argument is not based on proven local need (which is for smaller households and affordable social housing) but rather that the Cavalry Park development is required to meet a mobile shortfall which could be provided anywhere across the Glasgow and Clyde Valley planning area.
Given these contradictions, the support by North Lanarkshire planning officials and committee for Wimpey Homes application to build 159 four bedroom executive homes in this stunning location is nothing short of scandalous.
Further information and photographs are available at http://www.kilsyth.org.uk
Yours sincerely,
Robert M Kay
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