Clive raised his concerns about the need for truly-affordable housing and the reinstatement of the 178 bus when he spoke at the planning meeting last night which discussed phases 3, 5 and 6 of the Kidbrooke Village development

Clive is disappointed that Berkeley Homes does not intend to deliver on its commitment to deliver 38 percent of properties as affordable homes.  The developers have increased the number of total homes in the development but not increased the total of affordable properties hence the drop in the percentage level.  Clive commended the Council on forcing Berkeley to deliver 150 properties which will be offered for rent at Council–rent levels.

Speaking at the meeting Clive said “We have to take hard look at these sorts of developments and ask who is really benefitting?  If local people cannot afford the new housing, then what is the point?  Too many of these homes are being sold to overseas’ buyers who buy them as an investment and who have no intention of ever living in them. When we have a housing crisis like we do now, that is simply unacceptable.”

Clive is also resolved to carry on the fight to get the 178 bus reinstated to serve the local community in Kidbrooke and Blackheath.

TfL say they need a linear route to go around the new estate to reinstate the bus.  It was clear from last night’s meeting that the developers have not agreed how this route will be incorporated into Phase six, west of Kidbrooke road.

“It is not right that a major new development like this should seek to take away well-used local bus routes.  This should be at the centre of the planning process.  We managed to get the B16 bus back servicing local people after that was removed and I determined to do the same for the 178.  The fight continues.”