Further investment by Bath and North East Somerset Council to facilitate new housing and economic growth in Radstock has been welcomed by residents.
B&NES Cabinet met last week to approve up to £400,000 of capital funding to deliver the Ecological Mitigation, Compensation and Management Plan which will enable the redevelopment of the former GWR land in Radstock.
Radstock Councillor Simon Allen (Liberal Democrat) commented: “This regeneration scheme has been in the works for a very long time. Now we need to get on and deliver it. This mitigation plan will enable that to happen and will protect the local habitats and species for the next 20 years.
“We are hearing from residents who have businesses and who are bringing up their children in the town, that they can see the benefits of regeneration and that it is what they want. This will enable us to get on and deliver affordable homes and regeneration for Radstock.
“I am proud of the commitment this Liberal Democrat administration is showing to Radstock.”
Representatives from the new group “Fighting for the Future of Radstock” also attended and spoke of their frustration at the historical delays in starting redevelopment in Radstock, although they welcomed this administration’s recent actions to get things moving.
“FFR” are campaigning for jobs and housing to build Radstock into a better town.
Speaking at the meeting, Clandown resident Nettie Williams, who is a member of “FFR”, said: “The regeneration promises affordable housing and footfall for local businesses.
“The refurbishment of the Victoria Hall has already had an impact and makes me believe that further regeneration can only move Radstock in a positive direction. For the sake of local families, we can’t afford to slow down regeneration.”
Leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council, Councillor Paul Crossley (Liberal Democrat, Southdown) said: “It is extremely disappointing that the local Labour Councillor and RAG are doing everything they can to stop this redevelopment.
“Not only have their actions led to further delays but they are also jeopardising the supply of housing and other regeneration projects in the area. I call on Labour to confirm that they will not be party to a request for judicial review.
“I am pleased that Radstock residents who support regeneration are speaking up.”
