Decision-makers to consider all views (From Gazette Series)

Decision-makers to consider all views

FEARS that a new space-age design for Dursley library will be given the go-ahead regardless of numerous objections have been categorically rejected by Gloucestershire County Council.

The design for the £750,000 glass and steel building in May Lane will go before county planners next Friday.

But objector Dreena Menelaws told the Gazette she believes it is a pointless exercise.

"Dursley Town Council and Stroud District Council both objected to the plans so I don't really know why this is still going on," added Miss Menelaws. "It does seem as if it is likely to just get rail-roaded through because it is a county application.

Miss Menelaws was one of 14 people to voice their objections to the plans.

"I believe it is completely out of character with the mediaeval town," she added. "It would be a complete eyesore if allowed to go ahead."

At a planning meeting in October, the town council resolved by majority vote to object to the plans.

Speaking at the time, Cllr Jim Froggatt said he believed the building was completely wrong.

"I do not think it would fit in with the architecture of a market town - unless we are going to pull everything down and start again," he added.

The new the two-story building has been designed by Ridge Consultants and is a joint venture between Gloucestershire County Council and Stroud District Council.

The district council has objected to the plans.

Spokesman David Marshall explained the council did not believe the design was appropriate for a conservation area.

A county council spokesman said the planning committee stage was normal procedure for any planning application.

"It would be inappropriate to discuss a planning application before a decision is made," he added. "However, the county council planning committee considers all planning applications on their individual merits and with the same stringent and unbiased processes.

"The committee will look at all information available, including views and suggestions gathered from public meetings and individuals, before making an objective, impartial decision on any application."