Sunbury Residents Express Concern Over Green Space Development Plans

Residents residing in a Sunbury cul-de-sac have expressed apprehension regarding the future of a local green area following its sale to a developer. Those living on Catherine Drive stated they were “absolutely distraught” after proposals to construct six residences in the middle of the drive jeopardized the green space. Jason Kiefer, a resident of the road, described the green as an “integral part” of their community. ET Planning, the developers, asserted that the proposals would establish an “enhanced public amenity space” and preserve the urban open land. In 2022, residents collectively raised £27,000 in an effort to acquire the land at auction and preserve the green, but their bid was unsuccessful as it was sold for over twice that sum. Currently, the developer intends to construct six two-storey affordable homes on the site, each featuring a private garden and on-site parking, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service. Mr. Kiefer stated that the plans contained flaws because Catherine Drive is an adopted highway, further noting that the development would “segregate everyone off.” He elaborated, “It pulls the whole community together. Everyone can see everyone. We all get out there and have a laugh in the summer.” Councillor Harry Boparai, representing Spelthorne Borough Council, characterized the situation as an “unnecessary hell for residents.” A spokesperson for the council indicated that the Local Planning Authority is obligated to evaluate all submitted applications, encompassing the present proposal. They added, “Local residents have been notified of the proposals and their comments will be taken into account.” The determination of the application is anticipated in the new year. ET Planning chose not to provide additional comment.