Bedford Borough Council has said it is “shocked and disgusted” after being told that East West Rail is proposing to demolish a further 10 properties in Ashburnham Road, including homes, businesses and community facilities.
The East West Main Line Partnership, which is developing the Oxford to Cambridge rail link, met with council officers on Tuesday to outline the proposals. The plans would see 2–20 Ashburnham Road demolished.
The council says the affected properties include the long-established Dom Polski Club, a GP surgery, council-owned temporary accommodation, and multiple flats. Councillor Nicola Gribble, Portfolio Holder for Environment, described the plans as “abhorrent” and said they would have a severe impact on residents, businesses and the wider community.
“I am shocked and disgusted. East West Rail don’t seem to realise or perhaps simply don’t care about the impact on people’s lives, businesses, and this entire community. There has been no sign of foresight, no transparency. We still don’t know how they’ve reached the conclusion that this is necessary. Perhaps they just want to railroad us – well, it won’t work.
Council leaders have pledged to fight the proposals and to support those affected. Mayor Tom Wootton said the authority is awaiting further detail from East West Rail and will keep residents updated.
According to the council, East West Rail indicated during the meeting that if the demolitions did not go ahead, the project could be delayed by two to three years. Councillor Gribble said the council was not willing to see local people “pay the price” for shortcomings in the project.
St Neots Ladies Circle Calling for Donations at Christmas Lights Switch-On
Angels Foundation UK secures third consecutive year as Captain’s Charity at St Neots Golf Club
Huntingdonshire residents invited to ‘Be a Councillor’
Drivers urged to get winter-ready as police launch seasonal safety campaign
Comments
Add a comment