Over 1,300 comments on proposals for the once-in-a-lifetime redevelopment of Ryde Esplanade have been delivered directly to the door of County Hall by the business owners affected by the controversial plans.
The Isle of Wight Council today (Tuesday) closes its consultation on the Ryde Interchange scheme. However, the consultation has only allowed locals to respond to loaded questions on things such as bench designs and the colour of the tarmac. Ryde residents and businesses have not been given an opportunity to comment on the overall layout and design, which has sparked anger.
The proposal interchange does not incorporate easier access to Hovertravel, but does add in unnecessary traffic lights at the bottom of George Street and removes around 8 parking spaces. The proposals also see the demolition of public toilets and the Pier Café to make way for a new entrance road to Wightlink’s Ryde Pier.
A total of 1,320 comments have been boxed up and taken to the doorstep of the Council by Jeff Becker (Pier Café), Cathy Foulkes (former Ryde Development Trust chair), Tommy Booth (Codfather/Ice Cream Parlour) and Dave Sargison (Chocolate Apothecary). The comments say the scheme is unsafe for pedestrians, diminishes attractive facilities, is unnecessary and over-engineered.
Cathy Foulkes, who has been leading the fight against the £10million+ scheme, says:
“The overwhelming message to the council by petition is that in a Conservation Zone, which supports a multitude of visitors and business needs, the Council should go through planning process to ensure community scrutiny and professional bodies are consulted properly”.
this Council is like the last one they don’t give a s*** what we think all they want to do is get rid of the grass and trees and flower beds stick tarmac down and say they did well
The decision has already been made.
The council have yet again shown that they do not want the public who they are supposed to represent have a voice.
How awfully typical of a left-wing tree,-hugging council to allow no dissent to its ridiculous plans
What is happening to the Island, and what has happened in the last half century cannot be undone. It’s unique and charming character is being destroyed bit by bit. Some people are hell bent on making the Island nothing more than an extension of the mainland. Sadly they are succeeding. Something needs to happen, and happen quick, before it really is too late.