The local MP writes:

Recently, Victor da Cunha, Group Chief Executive of Curo, contacted me to update me about the impending demolition of the Walnut Buildings in Radstock. As former residents and those who live locally will no doubt be aware, the buildings arenow empty awaiting demolition and Curo have launchedthe first of two public consultation exercises to gather the views of the community about the future of the site.

The demolition of Walnut Buildingsis expected tostartthis monthandI understand that itis anticipated that this willtake about four weeks. The buildingsare to betaken down one by one with each block being demolished fully before moving on to the next. Specialist plant will be used to carefully remove roofs and walls and dig up the foundations.

I am pleased to see thatlocal residentsand interested parties will be able to help shape proposals for the future development to replace the buildings. This is a wonderful opportunity to give advice to Curo in respect of the design of the new housing and to indicate whether you would prefer a return to traditional design and materials in keeping with the area or the concrete and glass confections that planners sometimes like. Some mayprefer that houses with gardens be built for families upon the siteas opposed toflats and others may have ideas about incorporating aspects such as beauty and nature.

I would encourage full participation in the consultation process and the sharing of views on the survey that Curo has launched:www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/walnut-buildings. Mr. da Cunha has assured me that the feedbackreceivedfrom this process will helpCuro tocraft initial proposals whichwill be publishedover the next few monthsin orderthat a second public consultation can take place later in the year about the details of the design.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of any assistance:[email protected]