Eyesore estate a 'haven for crime' (From Penarth Times)

Eyesore estate a 'haven for crime'

FURIOUS residents living near the eyesore Harbour View and Royal Close estates say an accident will happen unless the site is redeveloped soon.

Members of Alexandra Ward Residents Association (AURA) are now demanding answers from the Vale Council on when the area will finally get its promised overhaul.

The group says it is five months since consultants David Locke Associates presented proposals for the site to landowners the council, yet residents have not heard anything since.

But the local authority claims the regeneration scheme is still underway and officials will soon be considering reports, following which they will consult the community.

AURA member Des Hebson said: "Why has nothing happened? Why has the council remained silent on its intentions for the site? What has happened to all the promises of an exhibition, newsletter, keeping the public informed at every stage?

"There is evidence of fly-tipping, of empty properties being vandalised and the whole area becoming overgrown and derelict."

She added: "It's a haven for crime and a magnet for children and, as such, is an accident waiting to happen."

But a Vale Council spokesman said: "This type of regeneration project is complex and time consuming, but it is the council's aim to ensure a sustainable regeneration project which will benefit the local community, Penarth and the Vale of Glamorgan."

He said council officials met residents' representatives in August, and will soon consider reports by the authority's consultants. After this, feedback will be given to the community.

"It's not uncommon for problems to occur in areas being prepared for regeneration but the estate is monitored regularly to minimise such problems and inconvenience," he said.

For AURA's statement summarising what it considers is the overall view of the community, contact chairman Alan Guppy on 2033 3945.