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15
Jul 2020
Ripon Barracks proposals move online following criticism
Homes England has published updated plans online for the 1,300 home development at Ripon Barracks, after concerns were raised from Ripon residents about transparency during lockdown.
The development, which encompasses Claro Barracks, Deverell Barracks and Laver Banks is being developed by the government’s housing agency, Homes England, and the Defence Infrastructure Organisation.
There are 1,300 homes mooted and it’s designated within Harrogate Borough Council’s Local Plan.
The development will be called Clotherholmes and the new plans include a community centre, employment space, shops, parkland, a new primary school and sports facilities.
Homes England had been accused of "a lack of transparency" around the plans due to lockdown, with local resident Barbara Brodigen telling The Stray Ferret that local residents have failed to have their voices heard.
Whole process online
Homes England said they initially wanted to publish the proposals online and to display them at a public event. However, due to the restrictions in place as a result of Covid-19, they have instead put the whole process online which includes information boards, an FAQ document and a pre-recorded presentation from the project team.
Ripon councillor Mike Chambers told the Stray Ferret he welcomed the plan but said its "achilles heel" is its lack of transport provision.
He said:
Read more:
People can submit questions about the development until July 26. Responses will then be added to the FAQ document and uploaded to the project website.
A planning application is due to be submitted to Harrogate Borough Council later this summer.
Martin Wilks, Ripon Barracks project manager at Homes England, said:
Meanwhile, Julian Smith MP has published a response from Homes England on his website, dated July 9, after he raised concerns from residents in a letter last month.
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