Residents fear plans could create traffic chaos

Plans to redevelop a popular sports and social centre face opposition from residents who fear it will cause "traffic chaos" on rural roads.

Ashville Group want to turn more than 33 acres of land on the east side of Down Hatherley Lane on the outskirts of Gloucester into a new business park with a 10,000 sq ft warehouse and offices.

More than 40 people have formally objected with concerns over the impact it will have on nearby narrow country lanes and believe large vehicles would struggle to pass other lorries.

Down Hatherley Parish Council said: "It is inevitable that the tight and cramped lane would descend into chaos if the road is expected to service a business park and warehousing units."

A parish council spokesperson added: "Two cars struggle to pass without stopping, commercial vans certainly cannot pass a car, or each other, and the lane is used by horse riders and dog walkers and cyclists."

The wider proposals include expanding the existing business park to provide more than 246,000 sq ft of industrial and storage space, plus a 29,000 sq ft unit for light industrial use with offices, food outlets and indoor recreational facilities.

AshvilleGroup has also proposed relocating a day centre and the sports and social club, alongside creating a new outdoor sport and recreation facility.

Dozens of residents and sports teams that use the clubhouse and football pitches say the plans would wipe out 16 acres of leisure space, concrete over green belt land and demolish a vital community hub.

One objector said: "There is no justification for any change in that status."

Ashville Group have said they also want the re-location of a day centre, sports and social club, and a new outdoor sport and recreation facility.

Opponents argue Down Hatherley Lane, which has a 7.5-tonne vehicle weight restriction, is unsuitable for business park traffic and already struggles with cars, vans, cyclists, and horse riders.

They also fear replacement facilities would be run on commercial rents, making them unaffordable for local clubs.

Ashville argues the scheme would help tackle a "significant lack of amenities" in the area, with new facilities such as a gym, food options and a multi-use games area for tennis, padel, football and basketball.

Gloucestershire Highways has requested a decision be deferred until traffic and transport surveys are submitted.

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