Forum Topic

Thanks for signing the petition Martine. I agree the photo of Ashburton is really interesting and shows very clearly that it is an estate characterised by the careful arrangement of linear blocks ranging from three-storeys to six-storeys in height. These blocks have been designed to create a series of semi-public communal gardens with access to entrance doors at the front, and semi-private communal gardens to the rear with overlooking balconies. The ‘U’ shaped arrangement of blocks around green areas is a repeated pattern, which is extremely successful. The blocks form a chain with each cluster being open to its immediate surroundings and beyond. This openness is a physical feature that lies at the heart of the success of this estate.The erection of the proposed blocks of flats - extending well above even the highest roofs at the moment - within intensively used spaces, will create an imposing wall-type development, that will largely infill essential gaps that exists at present and cause enormous damage to the character of the area. In short, they will have an over-bearing impact on both the surrounding spaces and the community.The success of our community is intimately connected to the layout of this estate - an excellent example of post-war community design, that has served this borough for more than seventy years.  It is a delicate and fragile system that could very easily be destroyed; once it is gone, it is gone for good. Successful communities like the one in Innes Gardens, exist largely as a result of the people who live there and the culture that has been created,  established and nurtured over time.We all benefit from the social capital generated by successful communities, including the council. We should all be mindful and respectful of our roles as custodians of this shared cultural heritage.

Paul Doorly ● 51d