Woodlands Grove New Build Development in Bradford by Reside Commercial Under Fire for Breach of Specifications
In a developing story that's causing ripples across Queensbury, Bradford Council is set to take planning enforcement action against the controversial Woodlands Grove housing development. This move comes after a chorus of resident complaints and officials voicing concerns that the developer, Reside Commercial, did not adhere to the approved plans.
Residents Raise a Myriad of Issues
In addition to the project not meeting approved specifications, residents have faced a variety of problems that extend beyond planning irregularities. Among them:
Obstructed Views: Many residents have found their views completely blocked by unusually high walls and buildings, contrary to what was illustrated in the initial plans.
Safety Concerns: Some of the new buildings have been erected alarmingly close to existing homes, posing potential fire hazards.
Decreased Property Value: The less-than-stellar construction has led to concerns about the depreciation of surrounding property values.
Traffic Congestion: The development was not equipped to deal with the increased vehicular activity, causing bottlenecks on Woodlands Grove and neighbouring streets.
Noise Pollution: Inconsistent with the proposed "quiet community" advertised, residents have been subjected to persistent noise due to poor soundproofing between the units.
Authorities Step In
Bradford South MP, Judith Cummins, confirmed in a letter sent this August that Bradford Council intends to take enforcement action. She stated, “Apologies for the delay in getting back to you on the important matter of Bradford Council's intended planning enforcement action...”
Slow Pace of Investigation Criticised
Despite the urgency of the situation, Councillor Alex Mitchell (Lab, Queensbury) expressed frustration over the slow pace of the investigation. He said, “Residents should not have to live next door to a 'nightmare development' that doesn't respect the long-established neighbourhood.”
The delays have been attributed to staffing shortages within the planning department, a situation the Council is actively trying to remedy.
Overwhelmed Enforcement Agencies
A spokesperson for Bradford Council mentioned that they deal with over 1,000 live enforcement cases at any given time, which adds to the challenge of tackling the Woodlands Grove situation promptly.
A Long History of Controversy
Even before the first brick was laid, the Woodlands Grove site had been a contentious issue, attracting numerous objections from local residents. Despite the pushback, the project was approved by members of the Council's Regulatory and Appeals Committee.
The Path Ahead
A comprehensive site survey is underway to identify any breaches in planning specifications. Once completed, the Council will determine the next steps, which could include planning enforcement action against Reside Commercial.
As this complex situation unfolds, residents and officials alike are pressing for swift and decisive action, aiming to either bring the Woodlands Grove development in line with the approved plans or have it face serious consequences for its numerous failings.
