No road for Elvaston, fix potholes instead
I HAVE had concerns on the future of Elvaston Castle and Country Park (ECCP) since 1999 when Derbyshire County Council (DCC) first announced its first consultation on the disposal of ECCP.
Having followed the situation closely, I feel the public are now more aware than ever of the benefits of public open space for their health and wellbeing and the protection of the environment and natural habitats (“Elvaston road will destroy habitats, claim campaigners”, November 16).
I therefore question the fact that DCC intends to build an unnecessary new road within ECCP, causing the felling of established trees and the destruction to habitat, the present home of many species of wildlife.
This will also lead to the loss of public open space due to commercial enterprises being involved in future developments.
The millions of pounds this unnecessary and unwanted road will cost the taxpayers of Derbyshire, whichever this budget comes from, would in my opinion be better spent on repairing the roads of Derbyshire, making them safer for all road users.
It was recently reported in a national newspaper that Derbyshire roads are the worst in the country for potholes, these can cause deaths and injuries and damage to vehicles.
I believe DCC should get its priorities right and consult with the taxpayers of Derbyshire to find which they prefer – a new road at ECCP or repairing and making safe the road of Derbyshire.
Another matter of importance is that central Government have instructed local authorities and councils to save costs by amalgamating with neighbouring councils.
It is forecast that Derby City Council will take control of South Derbyshire District Council, where ECCP now resides, and as a result ECCP will return to being a Derby city park.
I suggest that the people of Derby have the right to be consulted on the future returning of Elvaston Castle Country Park.
All proposals by DCC in respect of the future proposals for ECCP should be ceased until the boundary changes between Derby City Council and South Derbyshire District Council are confirmed.
Garnett Whyatt,
Draycott