Manstead latest

Morning all,

Just a quick update to let you know that although the area has now been fenced off, we absolutely haven’t given up. Far from it - we’re still pushing on every angle.

We completely understand how upsetting it is to be told that your long‑standing view across a large green space - full of trees and wildlife - is going to be replaced by new homes and a direct view into someone else’s windows at close proximity. One thing is absolutely guaranteed: nobody in Regency’s planning team would tolerate that happening outside their own homes. Yet somehow they think it’s perfectly acceptable when it’s other people’s outlook, peace and privacy on the line.

Licensing officer - This remains our strongest route. We’ve sent her a detailed list of concerns where we believe the plans may breach the site licence. She has confirmed she is looking into every point, and in the meantime she has asked Regency to provide her with more detailed information.

Fit and Proper Person complaint - We’ve raised a formal complaint that the site’s Fit and Proper Person, Sharon Reach, is not fulfilling her duties - for example, allowing works to start before the consultation deadline. We have to be realistic though: even if she were removed, Regency could simply appoint someone else. But it sends a clear message about how strongly residents feel.

Ecology concerns - We’ve reminded Regency of their legal duty to obtain a wildlife/ecology report before any building takes place. Failing to do so could amount to a criminal offence.

Planning permission - The council’s planning team have told us that although Regency can site new homes within their boundary, they will likely need planning permission for the hardstanding. So if anyone sees work starting on the bases, please tell us immediately. At that point the council may be able to intervene and stop works.

Contaminated land lead - We’re also following up a new lead from a resident that previous plans for this area were halted because of soil contamination. We’re digging into this (no pun intended).

So yes - the fight goes on, Manstead. We’re with you every step of the way.

In the meantime, please keep making your voices heard to Sharon and Ryan, who at the moment seem determined to ignore every concern raised by residents.

James