Saint James Road: The Balloon’s Gone Up!!

You know, I thought the whole thing with the patch of ground on Saint James Road could go — and I’m hoping Councillor Chilvers will excuse the phrase — tit’s up!

As you’re probably aware, by now, we in the Rollason Way/Saint James Road area have managed to get the plans for the flats refused: obviously with a bit of help!

The one big worry I’ve always had, though … ?

Is the simple fact that Taylor Wimpey already had planning permission to build offices on the site.

And, as I went up the road, earlier, to do some shopping … ?

I noticed the sign you can see, in the picture.

Which was a bit of a bloater, to be frank …

Now as you can imagine, I’ve been quickly in touch with Councillor Chilvers: according to her, Taylor Wimpey have until December of next year to finish the building work.

And — although she wasn’t positive — as far as she could remember, the original application for a four storey building: something she’s told me she’ll be double checking, to make sure of.

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But as you can imagine … ?

Well …

I’ve fired off a letter to the Gazette: after all, they did publish last weeks … !

Dear Sir,

I’ve got to admit, I’m writing in shock at something I’ve seen, today.

As you and your readers probably know, we here in Rollason Way have been rather pleased about the fact that Brentwood Council turned down the plans Taylor Wimpey had for the flats in Saint James Road.

But to my consternation … ?

I went past the patch of land where the flats were supposed to go, today, to find a nice big sign … advertising offices to let on the fence around the area.

As you can imagine, after signing the petition against the flats, and speaking against them at the relevant planning meeting, this feels sickening.

I’m only hoping that our local councillors — in the midst of party conference season — will be able to tell us residents exactly how we’re supposed to object to plans that have already gone through.

Right here and now, though? Given what’s done is done? I’ve a nasty feeling they’re as powerless as the rest of us.

More offices aren’t what I wanted to see, when I moved into Rollason Way: I think that’s me speaking for many of my neighbours, as well.

There we go …

Here’s hoping they publish …