11/09/07 - Cllr Tomlinson, Speedway Application Update

Ahead of tonight's crucial planning meeting, the planning officers had recommended the 'speedway application' be REFUSED.

As the Lead Member for Leisure, Recreation & Culture I organised for a meeting last night between myself, Cllr Rod Bluh (Leader, Swindon Borough Council), Officers and the developers.  Again, I have shown the difference you can make if you roll up your sleeves and get stuck in.

The meeting was extremely positive and constructive.

There is a clear will to see the principle of the application approved.  The Council and developers have worked extremely hard to address the majority of issues and concerns over the last few months.

The remaining area of concern is focused on the residential part of the application, as the Council requires more details on the layouts and design.  The developers are now happy to provide this.

Therefore tonights meeting should be a positive discussion, with a recommendation that the final decision be deferred to allow the developers time to supply the layout and design of the residential area.

Cllr Justin Tomlinson, Prospective MP - North Swindon, "Once again it is great credit to the speedway fans and local residents for their support in helping shape and deliver these extremely complex plans.  Last night's meeting was essential to keep the plans on track, and I firmly believe we are not a milion miles away from securing both the short-term and long-term future of speedway in Swindon, and a development in keeping with the local area."