Dear all,
We wanted to follow up with our supporters as a response to Basingstoke and Deane Council's (BDBC) public comments about this petition in the Basingstoke Gazette on 20th May.
We would also like to reiterate that this petition is aimed at raising public awareness of BDBC's plans, as stated on their own website.
You can read the Gazette article here:
https://www.basingstokegazette.co.uk/news/25170288.concerns-grange-destruction-just-arent-true/
The points we would like the Council to consider are:
Site Selection
We urge the council to reconsider its decision to declare Down Grange Park (not sports complex) as the most suitable site for relocating the Golf Centre, if the Great Wolf development necessitates its displacement. This decision should ultimately be made in a transparent manner and in consultation with the local community. In particular, we would like the Council to address questions about how the 'suitability' of the site relates to what the Council is proposing to build ... for example, the Council's website includes:
- adventure golf course,
- golf-pod style driving range, and
- a 6/12 pitch and putt.
Down Grange Park should not be selected on the basis that it is the least unsuitable site; we urge BDBC to redouble its efforts to identify suitable land owned by third parties that might be more appropriate as a location for this facility.
Design and construction
Whatever happens with the relocation of the Golf Centre, the local community must have transparency and appropriate assurances as to how biodiversity, public access, and local (and on-site) infrastructure will be protected both in terms of the design of the Golf Centre, its construction, AND the impact of the construction process.
Public access
When selecting Down Grange Park as the most suitable site what considerations did the council make concerning impacts on public access?
The park is currently enjoyed by many and various individuals, clubs and groups including award winning golf-frisbee club, cubs and scouts, sports, dog walkers, cyclists, and people generally looking for a sanctuary in nature.
Many thanks for your support.