PARK UNDER RING ROAD SET TO GET GO-AHEAD
PLANS for an urban park under Coventry’s ring road are edging a step closer with council officers recommending the green light.
Complex Development Projects hopes to create a new linear park dubbed the ‘Radford Underpark’ which would connect from Naul’s Mill Park to Belgrade Plaza in the city centre.
The scheme is recommended to be approved ahead of a committee meeting on Thursday, July 2, with planning officer Hannah Holt stating it will “make significant improvements to the area”, bringing back a fenced-off area under the ring road into public use.
The scheme includes pedestrian and cycle routes, greening, and ‘incidental play features’ including boulders, climbing posts and a raised ‘amphiteatre’ space.
Katie Burn, from the developers, said: “We believe these proposals will create a fabulous urban space that will link an important residential area with the city centre in an innovative, safe and attractive way.
“As well as the cutting-edge re-use of the area under the ring road which will be well-lit - it will showcase the area’s history, re-creating the culverted Radford Brook and regenerating the beautiful Edwardian Naul’s Mill Park to become a major green asset for the city centre.
“Not only will this become a major asset for local people, and ‘break through’ the ring road, it will also highlight the city’s green credentials and help to boost the city’s image in Coventry’s City of Culture year.”
Five objections have been raised against the plan, citing fears it will generate more crime and anti-social behaviour and compromise the security of homes on Abbotts Lane.
However, 10 letters of support have also been received, stating it will improve a “run-down area” by creating much-needed recreation space and a green link to the city centre.
The park plan is linked to the wider proposals for 731 flats, retail and commercial space on the former Transco site on Abbotts Lane, which is yet to be given approval but has sparked concern from residents over the scale and impact on roads.
If approved, the developer will be in charge of the long-term maintenance of the park, but planning documents show part of that cost will be passed onto residents at the planned flats plan.