Pergola approval sparks fears of overdevelopment and damaging the iconic Cheltenham townscape, overriding expert objections.
The Cheltenham Civic Society opposed the pergola plans. Historic England and others also objected, fearing for the look of the spa town. Councilors voted against expert advice when the planning committee approved the pergola on February 13 by an 8-3 vote.
The Civic Society is very disappointed. They believe the awnings harm Imperial Square, a key part of the town. The council set a bad example, they worry, as others may now build in front of buildings, potentially hurting Cheltenham’s look long-term.
New documents came out very late, they claim. There was no time to challenge them properly, which seems unfair to them. Council officers wanted to reject the pergola, but the committee still approved it. It will have a retractable roof, made of metal.
People around Imperial Square will be affected, and the square’s damaged appearance is a concern. Many fear new building applications will flood in because a building line rule exists in planning. You usually cannot build in front of this line, and this pergola might become a bad precedent.
Economic arguments used by councilors seem weak. Their own experts apparently disagreed with them, according to claims made.
Julian Dunkerton spoke at the meeting. He said he loves the town and invests in it, mentioning a petition with over 2,000 signatures supporting his plan. Dunkerton talked about challenges faced by restaurants, needing approval to protect 100 jobs. People in the audience cheered the decision. He told councilors he would make it work, adding that it would get the Liberal Democrats good reviews.