24/11/09 - Redevelopment of the Westfield Estate, Loftus

Ms Amanda Skelton

Chief Executive

Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council

Eston Town Hall

Fabian Road

South Bank, TS6 9AR

24 November 2009

Dear Ms Skelton

I am writing to you about the proposals from Coast and Country relating to the Westfield Estate, Loftus and planning application R/2009/0766/FFM.  After speaking with a number of residents from Loftus and walking through the estate with staff from Coast and Country, I wanted to make you aware of my views.

I am very excited about the regeneration proposals and the £22million investment set aside for this development.  It is fantastic news for Loftus.  It represents a once in a generation opportunity to regenerate parts of the town.  However, it is crucial we get this right.  A development on this scale must have support from residents, business and others in the local community if it is to be successful.

I wanted to make a few comments on aspects of the scheme:

1)      Mixed Tenure – I am personally a supporter of mixed communities.  I have read what the Joseph Rowntree Foundation have published on housing and they state that mixed communities can be overwhelmingly successful and not suffer social problems often associated with poor estates.  Mixed tenure estates are often pleasant places to learn and work and attractive to young families and first time buyers, and are popular amongst less affluent families and individuals, as they tackle the disadvantages they face when concentrated in poor areas. 

I am extremely pleased that the plans propose a mixed tenure development.  As I understand it, there are not very many leaseholders on the Westfield estate.  A range of people living in Westfield will be good for the area.  

I have been informed that all existing tenants will have the choice to be re-housed locally or on the estate itself.  

2)      Design – While the plans to demolish and rebuild most of the estate is likely to cause significant inconvenience and upheaval for existing residents, and for those living close by, I do understand that existing design is not a precedent developers wish to follow.  I am particularly pleased that the designers have considered the surrounding Victorian area and have chosen a vernacular design for the houses. 

Moreover, the design of estate in terms of walkways and open spaces has also contributed to some of the social problems that exist on the estate.  Looking through the plans, I note that this has been considered and I hope remains a focus for the regeneration plans.

3)      Consultation – I have been informed by Coast and Country that consultation and community involvement has been meaningful and considerable.  I know that there have been votes on various options with mixed views.  However, some residents have contacted me stating that they feel their views have not been taken into account.   I would urge that councillors on the planning committee and officers do take note of all comments on this application and the views expressed at earlier forms of consultation.  Perhaps Coast and Country can make this available?  Community support and engagement will be absolutely crucial in ensuring the long-term viability and success of this scheme.

Overall I am extremely supportive of the proposals.  I hope you find these comments and observations constructive.  The scheme can be a catalyst for change in Loftus and most of the people I have spoken with are excited about the future.  The town has tremendous potential and I am determined to play my part in supporting Loftus.  

Yours sincerely

Paul Bristow

Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Middlesbrough South & East Cleveland