The future seemed bright when the two cabinet members, Nick Botterill and Phil Alford visited 8 Market Place in November and explored the idea that Community Land Trusts could provide social rented housing. It seemed novel to them, geared as they are to the world of the Council and the developers, and they welcomed it.
Alas, soon after, we heard from an officer we had been corresponding with that the Community Right to Build Order (CRtBO) route was blocked for legal reasons. This was despite our having based it on CRtBOs made in Totnes and Nailsford that had been passed by examiners.
There was no time to lose. We had been given until early February to complete the purchase of the site and we cannot do this without funding that depends on having planning permission to build. The Office for the Police and Crime Commissioner, OPCC Board, have very kindly granted us an extension until early May, so it is full steam ahead to adapt the CRtBO to a planning application. Fortunately, all the professional assessments have been done including an in-depth one for flood risk.
It was sad to see the flooding that occurred a little further up-stream on the night of 2 January and into the early hours of 3 January. With the plans for 8 Market Place, only one flat will be at ground level and that will be raised. Other ground space will be taken up with bike and bin storage and car parking. The current tarmac will be taken up and replaced with a porous surface.
Robert the Bruce took inspiration from the spider trying again and again. We take inspiration from the support we have already had and the desperate need for social rented houses which is now recognised nationally and has all party support. CLTs are included in the latest National Planning Guidance (NPPF) and we and others have asked that they are included in the emerging Wiltshire Local Plan.
The Directors of the CLT gave a briefing to Pewsey Parish Council at their meeting on January 9th 2024 and confirmed that they still had Pewsey Parish Council's support for this project.
If you wish to take part or actively help in any way or obtain further information please email CLTPewsey18@gmail.com or search for the group on Facebook.
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