GLOUCESTERSHIRE’S newest parish council is calling on developers to drop its “failed” strategy for open spaces in a planned 2,500-home garden village.
Civic chiefs in Hunts Grove want Crest Nicholson to abandon its plans for a management company to be responsible for open spaces in the new suburb near Quedgeley.
The parish council was established in 2021 and is the county’s first in more than 40 years.
And when complete, Hunts Grove will comprise over 2,500 homes, large areas of public open spaces, parks, allotments, sports pitches, and a community building.
The original planning for the site included a legal agreement for all open spaces and amenities to be transferred and adopted by Stroud District Council.
However, the parish council says Crest Nicholson intends to extend its failed management company strategy to the final part of the village which is yet to be developed.
A parish council spokesperson said: “This is already in the early planning phase for up to 710 residential dwellings, a primary school, public open spaces, play facilities, landscaping and supporting infrastructure and a full outline application is expected this year.
“Councillors and residents have been attempting for more than five years to negotiate with Crest to address serious concerns and impacts of their approach to village maintenance and management.
“Unfortunately, despite the involvement of the council and others Crest refuses to work with us to adopt the planned open spaces and amenities."
The parish council says it is prevented from fulfilling its role of maintaining and being accountable for parks, sports pitches, allotments and other open spaces.
Crest Nicholson spokesperson said: “As part of the planning application process and prior to outline planning consent being granted, Crest Nicholson consulted with key stakeholders and agreed to use a management company structure.
“Crest continues to work with all key stakeholders, including Hunts Grove Parish Council, to ensure they can take an active role in the management of current and planned open spaces and amenities.
“As new community assets are planned and delivered, we will continue to consult with stakeholders on the design, management and ongoing maintenance, including any charges for leasing or bookings, to ensure they benefit the community."
An SDC spokesperson said it has offered to work with the Parish Council and the developer to address these points and they encourage both parties to work together.
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