Last week the plans for the development of Redhill Station were released across the town with a public event, display in the Belfry Centre and a presentation to the Redhill Business Guild.
Solum Regeneration is a partnership between Kier Property and Network Rail and they were granted planning permission in 2013 to redevelop Redhill station. Now in 2023 the plans have finally been released.
Whilst we welcome projects and plans to improve Redhill and to better link the station to the town centre, we have had concerning feedback from Redhill residents who do not feel that they are being listened to by the Council. We will attest this planning application if amendments are not made following the consultation.
THIS IS WHAT RESIDENTS HAVE TOLD US!
- The height of the towers: All the residents we spoke to are concerned over the height of the towers and the sheer number of flats being built on one development. The vast number of residences is required due to the commercial deal with the developers. In order to cover the £6m cost of the public development the pay off is 266 homes.
- The need for affordable housing: Not one of the 266 shiny new homes will be affordable housing or social housing. When the average house price is 12.5 times the average salary in the area this is a missed opportunity to improve opportunities for local residents.
- Parking for 266 homes: There is huge concern over the lack of parking spaces for 266 new homes and where the new residents are going to park. The area is already congested.
- Impact on the Taxi drivers of Redhill – The taxi rank is to be moved to the rear of the station and will be reduced to 7 stands. The taxis will miss out on passing footfall from the town centre and the reduction in stands will impact the number of Taxis that can safely wait. No proper consultation has taken place with the 70 plus drivers whose income is dependent on the station.
- Meaningless Cycle facilities – Whilst we welcome the large cycle storage area in the plans this is somewhat redundant until the council addresses the need for improved cycle routes into Redhill and into the station.
What happens next?
- Solum, the developers, need to submit a formal planning application in the next few months. They are asking for feedback to consider in their application to the council.
- You can complete the electronic feedback form available on the solum website at https://solumredhillstation.co.uk/ DEADLINE 11th February
- Vote Labour on 4th May to ensure you have councillors in place who will ensure developments are fair for all!