Consultation Information
The views of local residents, tenants and wider stakeholders are important to us and we have been consulting with tenants, neighbours, the local community and stakeholders and gathering their thoughts and ideas to shape and refine our proposals.
Consultation
The second round of consultation finished on the 6th June. We appreciate the engagement from the community at the exhibition, at our in-person sessions & online during the consultation. This provided an opportunity for local residents and businesses to view and discuss the latest plans, give feedback and help shape the proposals before planning submission.
Our planning application for phase one of the Vassall Centre project has now been submitted. Phase two, which relates to the affordable family homes, will be subject to a separate planning application.
If you have any questions or queries regarding the consultation arrangements, please contact ABC, our consultation coordinator, on 0117 977 2002 or [email protected].
Previous consultation
Round 1: An initial round of consultation took place in autumn/winter 2021 and was designed to give people the opportunity to influence the emerging designs at an early stage. We held a series of meetings with tenants and the local community and an exhibition to present our early proposals and hear people’s views.
We had good engagement with the local community, with over 100 people participating in the consultation events and exhibition and 74 responses to our survey. In addition to lots of positive feedback and suggestions, there were some shared concerns, particularly from adjacent neighbours, about the potential impact the proposed development might have on their properties, as well as questions as to why the existing buildings could not be retained and refurbished.
Whilst this phase of consultation is now complete, the exhibition proposals can be viewed below and will remain on display at the Vassall Centre and will be updated as the project progresses. The project team has been reviewing and considering all comments in detail, in order to help shape and inform the next stage of the designs.
Community Survey
In early 2022, we conducted a community survey, asking people for ideas about the publicly accessible elements of the proposals. This includes the potential community uses and activities that could be included in the new building, as well as how to make these welcoming to both existing and new residents.
We received 40 responses to the community survey, which was open from January to end April 2022.
70% suggested that bookable community space would be valued by the community for a range of activities and uses, such as:
- Flexible-use space suitable for group meetings, celebrations, community events etc.
- Exercise classes for all ages and levels
- Kitchen area/shared break out space with hot drinks facilities
- Training opportunities for learning and adult education
- Support groups
Two thirds were interested in having a café on site open to local residents and other ideas included a small library, bookable casual office space, a care share scheme parking space and a club/activities for young people/children.
When asked about what would attract them to use the community facilities, popular suggestions included a pleasant open space, well-maintained community garden open to all, a seating area and community activities.
Suggestions for celebrating the history of the Vassall Centre focused on a permanent exhibition, plaque or a sculpture/art installation in the grounds.