26 July 2026
Whilst the proposal is by no means perfect, the centre of Buxton is in need of development. The existing car park scene is not attractive and represents wasteful use of space. It is crucial that the car parking issue is considered in the round and not just this application but including increased parking behind the station. I hope that some of the deficiencies can be successfully addressed through conditions or other negotiation. We do need to learn to live with less reliance on cars and the development needs to make this easy for people. A condition should be attached, in mitigation of the car issue, that all purchases within the development must include compulsory membership of car share club, run by the developers until it is financially sustainable (there is staff time available for htis through the proposed travel officer). In time this should also be open to the wider Buxton public. Similarly, the cycling provision planned is inadequate, both for the new residents and for visitors and residents of wider Buxton. There needs to be an increase in secure storage for the new residents and increased provision for day visitors and shoppers. The lack of affordable housing is lamentable as this is a site that is ideal for such a purpose. HPBC has policies on this and these should be enforced and required of the developers. Perhaps to assist with this, some of the planned affordable housing for Granby Road could be relocated into some of the planned apartment blocks? The reduction in disabled parking bays adjacent to Waitrose needs to be addressed. Observation indicates that the current number is frequently insufficient. More need ot be made available. There are parts of the scheme that have featured prominently in consultations and are strongly desired by the residents. Any permission should have a condition that C&C do make suitable space for both the library and the museum. It is appalling that we have reached application stage without DCC engaging to deliver on their promise regarding these facilities. Similarly, since a key feature of the scheme is the integration of the railway station into the town, it is crucial that going forward DCC engage and deliver a suitable crossing on Station Road, ideally linked with the existing one (as works well with the two on Terrace Road) The opening up of our much abused river is to be welcomed along with many other aspects the scheme.