Public meeting for Southsea development

GMB call for First Wessex to hold a public meeting on Southsea development.

Numerous residents have raised concerns with this building program and its potential impact on the local community says GMB

GMB members in Southsea have been inundated with requests to approach First Wessex Property Services regarding a proposed two block development on the edge of the Central Southsea Ward in Portsmouth.

Residents raised concerns over light levels on Orchard Road, the impact on scarce residential parking and the potential for extremely high levels of traffic while construction is under way. GMB members spoke with residents regarding the development of 70 flats on Goldsmiths Avenue while canvassing for Labour candidate Frank Minal.

Frank Minal, Labour Council Candidate and GMB regional organiser said “I have spoken to numerous residents who have raised concerns with this building program and its potential impact on the local community. This is already the most densely populated part of the Portsmouth with the least green space.

It would be prudent for First Wessex to hold a public meeting to address the very real concerns that local residents have over the impact of the development and the look and feel of their area. As such GMB will be asking Peter Walters, chief executive of First Wessex, to come and speak with concerned residents.

The companies’ community web page clearly highlights that the aims of the company are to promote community togetherness and to engage ahead of new developments, something which doesn’t appear to be happening in this instance. Given these aims we hope that Mr Walters will agree to meet and listen to the residents of Southsea for himself.”

Contact:  Frank Minal on 07713 079930 or GMB press office on 07970 863411 or 07739 182691