I VISITED the display about the regeneration of the Cowley Centre recently.

There were a number of good features proposed, such as the inclusion of some housing and the absence of offices and shops. However, the area to be redeveloped could take more housing than is being suggested.

The 230 housing units proposed do not take advantage of the possibility of building above existing surface car park space or make specific provision for key workers and social housing.

I would like to see 100 per cent key worker (perhaps part-rent, part buy) and social housing units to meet the needs for homes that people can actually afford in Oxford.

I reject suggestions that the Cowley Centre needs a hotel. Oxford is having what appears to be an outbreak of ‘hotel fever’ at present, with proposals for hotels in the city centre, in the Northern Gateway and in Barton.

Since Oxford currently has about 164 hotels and bed and breakfasts within 10 miles of the city centre, any additional capacity (particularly at the lower end of the market) is more about trying to knock competition out of the market than adding capacity to meet real demand.

Oxford needs homes people can actually afford, not more hotels occupying space in the city.

I am very concerned about the traffic implications of movements in and out of a service area for a hotel in this area and what seems to be inadequate space for a proper bus turning circle and stops on both sides of the road.

Better cycle routes and extra crossings are already needed in this area and the suggested new developments make these essential.

Dr HAZEL DAWE
Treasurer, Oxfordshire Green Party