Developer’s to be made to make better communications to Local Residents.
BASINGSTOKE MP Maria Miller is calling for better communication to be made between developers and local residents. The request was made following trouble over roadworks near a building site in Buckskin.Residents near the building site on Old Kempshott Lane, criticised builders for a lack of notice being given about road works taking place.
Locals received a letter from Barratt Southern Counties, the developers of the site, detailing that two new entrances were due to be made last monday.The work has meant that two sets of temporary traffic lights have been set up, meanwhile work on sewer connections has begun. However, residents believe that the developers are also undergoing work on the roads themselves, making changes that would affect their access to their own properties.A resident from Old Kempshott Lane, Lynn Deevoy said: “the neighbours were given two days to move their cars!” and she believes that the work on the roads will take place, without planning permission, and is thought to take six weeks to complete. Residents contacted Mrs Miller and local councillors, who raised their concerns at a meeting with staff from the developer on Friday. Mrs Miller has also written to the chief executive at Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council requesting urgent attention to the issue. Mrs Miller said: “What it all comes down to is very poor communication. It’s clear that the residents are under the impression that work is being carried out without proper consultation. Perhaps it is time that we look at the protocol for future developments, so that we can protect the interest of our existing residents.”Hampshire County Council have confirmed the contractor has obtained a licence for the sewer connection, but no permission has been granted for roadworks.Barratt Southern Counties have denied allegations that unauthorised work has been carried out on their site.Managing director Trevor Sawyer said: “We have received approval from Hampshire County Council to carry out roadworks relating to the drainage connections. A meeting has already been planned with the local council and residents to discuss the ways in which to minimise the disruption to the local community and we apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
