This in from Chris Whitehouse, in his own words. Ed
Local councillors and schools in west Newport have arranged a meeting with representatives of the Co-operative Group to find out more about the retailer’s plans for the possible development of the Hartwells Garage site at the junction of Carisbrooke Road and Wellington Road.
The retailer has been in discussion with planning officers of the Isle of Wight Council about the potential development of a 250 square metre convenience store on the site of the former Vauxhall dealer.
Implications considered before final plans submitted
Speaking yesterday, Cllr Chris Whitehouse (Conservative, Newport West), who arranged the meeting, says:
“The Co-operative Group contacted me and other local councillors, as well as Isle of Wight Council Officers, to discuss their plans. With five schools in and around Wellington Road we have chronic problems with parking and traffic flow at school run time. Several thousand children attend school in our very small area.
“I felt it important that local schools were made aware of the plans as soon as practical so that any issues of pedestrian/road safety and traffic congestion can be discussed and the implications considered before any final plans are submitted for approval. Safety for our children and the quality of life of local residents must come first.”
Keeping an open mind
The meeting is being hosted by Christ the King College, which is located on split sites in Wellington Road and whose students cross the road to and from classes during the day. The Principal of the College, Mrs Pat Goodhead, added:
“We keep an open mind about the proposed development, but we must at all times consider the safety of our students. Anything that increases traffic and congestion, particularly at school run time, is something that would concern us greatly. We look forward to hearing more about the plans from the Co-operative Group.”
Who’ll be attending
As well as Cllr Whitehouse from Newport West ward, neighbouring wards will be represented by Cllr John Hobart (Conservative, Carisbrooke) and Cllr Julie Jones-Evans (Newport Central). The five schools in and around Wellington Road are Christ the King College, Carisbrooke College, Carisbrooke Church of England Primary School, Newport Church of England Primary School and St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School.
The meeting will be held on Friday 7th February at Christ the King College’s new Sixth Form building and will receive a presentation from representatives of the Co-operative Group on their plans, followed by a discussion of concerns that the schools and councillors may have.
