There are proposals for the development of a mixed use scheme on two vacant sites at Thameside, Vicarage Road and Water Lane,including residential, a new public square, and ground floor cafe/gallery/exhibition space. One of the proposed buildings will be a "landmark" tower of 21 floors and though the site is outside the CARA area, we may be able to see it and some residents might like to comment, either for or against: tall buildings on the edge of the town centre, and whether they and the proposed public spaces are desirable or necessary, are largely a matter of taste.
The Council web-page says "Consultation in progress. Neighbours and others with an interest can comment on the case"; however it is not clear how to comment, or how far along the process the proposals are. The developers apparently showed their plans at the Pavilion in the summer, but few residents knew about that and even fewer saw the plans. The developers have apparently been informed that there is no need for an Environmental Impact Assessment.
More information can be accessed on the Council website at http://maps.kingston.gov.uk/isis_main/planning/Planning_DETAIL.aspx?strCASENO=1112584&strHeader=Y and http://maps.kingston.gov.uk/isis_main/ImageViewer/Image_Menu.aspx?strSystem=DC&strFCASENO=11/12584&strHeader=Y&strCaseNo=1112584.
