When the Vale planning committee approved the development of flats at 98-100 West Way, their decision included the argument that the new build was not overpowering its neighbours, nor was it an overdevelopment of the site.
I disagree.
Now, in a similar application for 6 flats on the property at 102 West Way (just next door to the left of this larger development), the planning officer cites the building at 98-100 West Way as a precedent. The officer says it was not overbearing and is recommending permission be granted for 102 West Way.
Here are photos I took in August 2013. To me, the bungalow at 96 (I think it’s 96) is completely overhwhelmed by the flats.
What were the Vale planning committee thinking? Maybe you might ask Cllr Eric Batts of North Hinksey, who sits on the planning committee.
I think it was poor decision. As a precendent for future West Way residential development, it’s beyond disappointing.
I agree- as the flats at 98-100 West Way have gone up, I have been dismayed by their scale. They are much more obtrusive than most of the other blocks of flats recently built.
I fear that this kind of development , especially if repeated next door to these, could be used to argue that the Doric plans are not out of line with other local developments.