As previously reported on these pages a second Public Inquiry has been convened for phase two of Nottingham Express Transit and this inquiry took place last week. This inquiry is looking at the proposed swapping of land currently owned by Rushcliffe Borough Council. The Inquiry heard evidence, and counter evidence, that the swapping of land would have little or no bad effect for local residents whilst there was also arguments of the effect on local bird life.
As regards the swapping of public space for Rushcliffe Borough Council, Ian Gilder, Head of Planning at Environmental Resources Management Limited, acting on behalf of the City and County Councils, said there would actually be a benfit of for local residents
He said: “For most residents there are alternative areas of open space that are closer, with associated shorter walking times, than the railway embankment. Some residents living close to the northern part of the railway corridor would have to walk further to use other areas of open space. However, the distances are small. Residents in St Austell Drive and Heathervale, for example, would have to walk between 100 and 320 metres further to use Finsbury Park Heath. My evidence acknowledges that in terms of walking distance, the exchange land is further away from residents at the northern end of the corridor than the existing railway path. If for some reason, existing users of the railway path do not choose to use the new path, there are easily accessible and attractive alternative open spaces. The exchange land will attract 'new' users from the residents of Silverdale, for whom it is very convenient, and to a lesser extent, parts of Clifton. In terms of extent and quality of recreational and nature conservation provision, it will more than replace the open space to be acquired permanently."
However, protestors against the line – some who look as if they took advantage of this second Inquiry to bring old grudges to the fore – say that the new public open space would be a poor subsitute for the existing land, particualrly for the wildlife.
Dr Matthew Cowley, acting Head of Policy and Planning at the Notts Wildlife Trust, said: “Habitats to be created on the exchange land do not have the same ecological value in the short or long term. It could take 15 to 20 years to create habitats on this arable land, but it would be hard to create the same quality of environment as that lost (at the embankment) even in the long-term."
The Inquiry has now concluded and it is expected that Inspector Robert Barker will reveal his recommendation in 2009.
Source: This is Nottingham