[2024] UKUT 187 (LC)

At the date of the hearing there were 32 objectors to the application, three having withdrawn their original objections. Those remaining comprise members of the Courtyard Gardens Residents’ Association, and individuals living in the houses surrounding the application land. They are listed in the appendix. Some of the residents had initially been represented by Mr Jason Butler. However, Mr Butler had been unwell, and, in the event, he did not submit evidence or appear at the hearing. Nor did any objector take the opportunity to attend the hearing to explain their objections in person.

Many of the objections submitted were based on the need to maintain housing for elderly people, focussed on the lack of amenities in the village, or stated that the original purpose of the covenants remained valid. Several complained about St George’s Court being badly maintained or simply left vacant. Others though it ‘crazy’ that the buildings in St Georges Court could ‘sit empty’ (the objections were submitted prior to Clarion’s demolition). Evidently, feelings in the community are running high.