Council reports keen interest in the plans for Roehampton

with 120 residents attending the two open events

Residents at the two meetings in Roehampton to discuss regeneration plans for the area raised traffic, shopping, leisure and housing issues as their main concerns.

Local people have until December 15 to let the council have their views on a variety of options for attracting investment to the central Danebury Avenue area.

The council's executive member for regeneration and community safety James Cousins fielded residents' questions following a presentation from Urban Initiatives consultant Simon Carnes who drew up the options.

Cllr Cousins said, " There are lots of different views of where the priorities for Roehampton should lie. These included concerns about bringing in more student accommodation and enthusiasm for better shops and recreation facilities.

" Inevitably most people wanted something doing about the traffic on Roehampton Lane and improvements to parking.

"The biggest controversy is the future of the green area at the junction of Danebury Avenue and Roehampton Lane. Some stressed the importance of preserving the green space while others were keen to make this a real meeting place and centre of activity for the community.

"What was encouraging was the support for the council's key aim of creating a new centre for Roehampton that will be safer and more welcoming for residents, businesses and shoppers. These are ambitious plans which if successful could transform the heart of Roehampton. Some of the proposals would need a lot of detailed study but at this stage the emphasis is on gaining a thorough understanding of community priorities."

An exhibition of the different schemes is on display at Roehampton Library until December 15. The council will report on the results of the consultation and the outcome of further studies in April 2007.

November 24, 2006