Bits and pieces from letters to EDDC about the Liatris application

EDDC Planning Dept has to consult other departments in EDDC about the Liatris planning application. Here are just some comments from other departments - others will follow over the next few days. If you are in a hurry, just read the red bits:

Landscape Architect:

"Landscape visual impact assessments should consider the "worst case situation". The most significant concern is that the red line bounday [of this application] does not propose the waterfront adjacent to the River Axe. The current outline proposals do not address any form of substantial mitigation measures on this boundary should the adjacent land not come forward for development......"

"The Environmental Impact Assessment states:" No specific mitigation is required". However, the character of the site will be very different upon completion and consent should not be granted unless there is clear evidence that a strong landscape framework can be achieved on site and sustained throughout the life of the development. Failure to achieve this will result in a "bolt on" high density residential estate to the back of Seaton".

"The scale of the development warrants on-site provision for play and recreation facilities".

"8.102 the boundary between the development site and the existing tramway may prove to be very positive. However, information should be provided to consider the "worst case" situation. These issues might include: security fencing, concerns for health and safety, vandalims and the long term visual quality and management of this area ...".

"The buffer zone to the northern boundary of the site adjacent to Seaton Marshes is considered to be too narrow ....".

"8.140. The scale and mass of development within the site will have increased significantly and the supermarket is a departure from the existing type of structure. The character of the town will change and the width of the town from the sea front will have essentially doubled, dramatically changing the form and structure of the town both visually and physically. This should be recognised within the environmental impact assessment."

"The subsidence risk is considered to be moderate given the increase in ground levels through importaion of "fill" and it is essential that the characteristics of this material meet the requirements of the constructed elements but also the tree planting and shrub planting".

16.28 " "Approproate Project Management "would ensure that the landscape and visual effects would be acceptable for the duration of works on the site". This statement suggests that an on site environmental clerk of works will be required and this position should be tied to a Section 106 agreement to ensure on site inspections and enforcement action

17.4 [THIS SECTION IS IMPORTANT] "No contribution towards public open space. The cost of bringing ground levels up to the required level has raised concerns for the viability of the scheme...... The scale of Development warrants a more comprehensive solution to public open space and recreation within Seaton."

SUMMARY [part of]:

It is understood that the site has a number of constraints which are likely to require high cost and possibly high technical solutions, however, the land areas plan submitted as part of this application clearly indicates some of the failings that have not been addressed in terms of layout and quality fo spaces.

There are no "off site" works intended as part of this major development, which raises concern in how beneficial this regeneration proposal is for the town of Seaton."

The scheme's viability is in jeapordy due to the high costs associated with the importation of "fill". In order to enable development on this site alternative solutions, an alternative desing approach or a reduction in the net developable area with should be rigorously tested."

From Streetscene:

"Who will own and maintain retail car park?"
"Access to Harbour Road car park 0n to busy Underfleet."
"Loss of open space".
"Why an open channel? [the monsoon drain] Could the piped culvert with grille access for water potentially be adopted by South West Water?"
"Maintenance cost and amenity value of open channel/cycleway could be a burden to EDDC."
"Management of existing drainage ditches (currently blocked and ineffective) to the north of the site."
"Section 106 money: Lots of money probably going to wetlands north of the development (Countryside). Some monies need to be diverted to other facilities referred to above [referred to: enhancing play area, adopting flood channels, street furniture].
"Public conveniences: This area of Seaton requires public convenience if existing to be demolished. New modern PCs should be provided for use by car park, seafront/market square, etc."
"Wheel bins and recycle bins storage facilities."
"Access for refuse lorries."
"Public open space: residential properties next to play area and stake park could lead to complaints of anti-social behaviour.