Pond Close site may go up for auction

The site in question is used for parking in Pond Close, and has been subject to two planning applications by the association – for eight assisted-living flats and three three-bedroom houses. Appeals for both were thrown out, largely on the grounds of overdevelopment and concerns over access for emergency and refuse vehicles.
Residents had not been informed on the potential sale, and Sovereign is not legally obliged to inform them.
One resident Lorraine Cladingboel said: “Three years of fighting and still no end in sight. But be assured. Pond Close residents will not give in – we’ll carry on fighting.”
A spokesman for Sovereign, Roy Probert, said: “Sovereign was keen to redevelop this site in order to provide much-needed affordable homes. However, following opposition from local residents, our proposal was refused by West Berkshire Council and the Planning Inspectorate.
“There is little we can do with the site.
“In accordance with Government policy and good asset management, we have been considering the sale of this site so that the proceeds can be reinvested in providing affordable housing elsewhere in this area.”
Sovereign has not yet confirmed whether the land will go to auction.