Wednesday, 9 February 2011

Approve new bus shelter, report says

A REPLACEMENT bus shelter for Station Road, Knowle should be approved, a council planning expert has said.

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The Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council officer has recommended councillors tomorrow night approve the circular design.

The existing 1950s structure, by Knowle Fish Bar, used to house a toilet that was closed by the council in 2007.

The report says: “By removing a bulkier, architecturally undistinguished building that is not sympathetic to the village and wider area, it will enhance the wider setting of the designated
heritage assets.”

It said: “The improvement will result firstly from the removal of the existing building and then from the erection of a better alternative structure that supports the existing public transport function of the site and creates a better opportunity for social interaction and enjoyment of different village views.”

Trees will be removed as part of the long-mooted project, led by The Knowle Green Community Project Steering Group, which comprises The Knowle Society and rotary and business leaders.

It says the agent for the scheme has received only positive comments.

A consultation found of the 141 who responded, 87 per cent supported the new building.

One letter of objection has been made to the council’s planning committee.

It says: “Lack of weather protection compared to that of the existing shelter, combined
with the need to retain/adapt the current building to save resources.”

The new structure will include a memorial to Dr Bowker, a founder member of Knowle Society.

The planning committee meets at the council in Solihull town centre tomorrow at 6pm. The public are welcome to attend.

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