Plympton Pathfields, The Latest News

2. December 2000 - Meeting Chaired by MP Gary Streeter brings all sides together

Following growing concerns about flooding and safeguards to protect the environment and landscape, a top level meeting initiated by the Pathfields Group, chaired by local MP Gary Streeter was called inviting all key parties to attend.  The crucial meeting took place in Plympton St. Maurice Guildhall just before Christmas 2000.

Present at the meeting were Pathfields Preservation Group members Charmian Evans, Dr. David Mercer, Aidan Cooper and Kevin Owen.  Local ward councillor Kath Banks attended with senior planning and legal officers from Plymouth City Council.  South West Water was represented as were the Environment Agency.   Beazer Homes was represented by Mark Crosby Public Relations with technical representative Phil Simcox.

Issues raised by Pathfields included:-

• Planning Conditions - local authority and environment agency, progress, implementation and adherence
• Sale of City Land - costs of abnormal works
• Flood Prevention - out of bank flows, flooding upstream, concrete retaining wall, underground culvert and water storage lake
• Dark Street Lane - public and vehicle access, pavements, bridge, works access
• Building Works - building heights, foundations, water run-off
• Environment - protected trees, open stream feature, public access, Devon banks, planting and landscaping

Flooding problems experienced by residents further downstream on Potters Way, Priory Mill  and Market Road were raised to determine how they were to be improved and if the development on the Pathfields could make matters worse.

Assurances were given by City Planner Paul Westrope that in the future there would be no further housing development on flood plain land.   Greater  transparency in decision making was called for together with improvements in information and responses to public concerns.  A positive dialogue and exchange of views between Beazer Homes and the Pathfields Group continued after the meeting had ended which prompted an agreement to meet again as soon as possible in the New Year.

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