Affordable housing plans spark parking concerns

Plans for new affordable housing have sparked concerns over parking conditions in the area.

Bracknell Forest Council's planning committee approved plans to demolish 63 garages on land at the rear of Shepherds Lane in Bracknell, Berkshire, to build three two-storey homes and five bungalows in their place.

Twenty parking spaces would also be provided for future residents.

Councillor Peter Frewer said the proposed development would "create parking issues more than anything else".

The affordable homes would be run by provider Abri, which merged with Silva Homes last year.

Each one would have a private garden and a footpath, linking Shepherds Lane and St Anthony's Close, would be created.

Planning officers said the garages, also managed by Abri, were in a "poor condition", with the area subject to fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour.

The town council has submitted an objection, saying it would worsen parking and traffic in the Priestwood and Garth area.

Neighbours also said their area was already "overpopulated" and that local facilities could not cope with more residents.

Mr Frewer, ward member for Harmans Water and Crowns Wood, said he was concerned approving the plans would "set a precedent" for proposals to demolish other garage sites, which serve to "ease the parking" in the borough.

He said: "We don't seem to know exactly who occupies these garages, whether there are cars or not.

"Binfield Road is quite horrendous for cars, parked on verges, and I just feel that is going to create parking issues more than anything else."

About half of the garages are currently not being used, while the other half are either rented or privately owned.

Those using them will be given alternative ones nearby.

Councillor Patrick Smith supported the plans, saying they were a "really efficient use of an underused brownfield site".

There were "reasonable" parking plans alongside the new homes, which would "not contribute to further congestion", said Councillor Tina McKenzie-Boyle.

The site is close to another block of garages set to be demolished for housing off Merryhill Road.

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