I read with some concern the report on the planning committee’s consideration for parking at the proposed Drapers Place development.
Those members who voiced an opinion with regard to the limited parking should have been given more prominence as the very limited parking proposed takes no account of the limited local transport facilities and distances to available doctors’ surgeries, hospitals and dental facilities not to mention distances from supermarkets and other shops regularly needed.
Given the location of the development it is possible that whilst some limited facilities may be within the reach of some residents at whom it is aimed others will not have the mobility or resources for continual use of taxis.
This also ignores the need for social use; even those of advancing years require other pleasures and to visit friends and family.
Car ownership is a necessity in Spalding for the majority of residents and for those over the age of 55 years is essential for the increase in medical needs especially as the nearest major hospital is well over 15 miles distant with little practical option of using other than personal transport and even the limited resources of the Johnson Community Hospital are 1.25 miles distant.
Additionally, attempting a weekly shop to a supermarket and carrying supplies on foot is not attempted by many younger people so why should it be expected of those in later years.
Is it not time that those who are given the task of planning are also made to consider the effects of the decisions they make?
John Andrews
via email
