Demolition of two century-old houses angers residents in Almondsbury area

The development would see the demolition of two houses estimated to be over 100 years old – number five and six Catbrain Hill – on land at Laurel Hill, Cribbs Causeway.

Catbrain Hill resident Peter Hazeldine, 69, argues the houses which may be torn down are of historical interest, and that the applicant, leading car dealership group Dick Lovett, should not be delving into housing.

“The developers are looking for the cheapest and quickest way in to develop this site,” he said.

“No thought has been given to the existing residents in Catbrain Lane, Hill or Medlar Close. 

“To demolish the houses is unnecessary and would ruin, what is in effect, a country road.

“The increase is traffic both on the mini roundabout and Catbrain would be horrendous.”

Dick Lovett, which obtained permission to build a car dealership on land at Laurel Hill in July, applied for the housing development close by on May 27 last year.

Mr Hazeldine added: “It is odd how Dick Lovett are going into housing but I assume it is to fund the Aston Martin centre they have recently got planning permission for.”

Neighbours Martyn and Christine Wheaton also strongly object, arguing that the chosen location is unsuitable for excessive traffic which could cause safety issues.

The couple said: “We see this as appalling and unworkable.”

Patchway councillor Eve Orpen also raised concerns over the access.

She said: “It’s simply not feasible. Not to mention that if, say, every house brings one car – that’s a lot more movement down a country lane which is also not feasible.

“Most residents aren’t against the new 110 homes but more so of the increase of traffic and the chosen access route.”

Almondsbury Parish Council says it objects to the application “in the strongest terms” with concerns over the proposed access to the site. 

Dick Lovett was unavailable for comment on the story despite numerous attempts to contact the company by the Gazette.