Min approval will desecrate city haven

The planning committee members have approved the Mineral Water Hospital hotel development, complete with its massive newbuild extension and destruction of the historic garden which is a conservation area and Scheduled Ancient Monument. The historic garden is rich in mature trees, bushes, grass and wildflowers. An immense variety of birds, bats, insects, butterflies, moths, bees and other pollinators inhabit the area.

I watched in horror as one councillor openly admitted to only having had “a quick look at the plans”. Most of the other councillors said nothing, simply raising their hands in support of the development at the end. This was a highly important and contentious planning application with huge opposition and the potential for devastating consequences for residents, visitors, the environment and wildlife. It was imperative that councillors had properly familiarised themselves with the plans.

The extension will tower over residents blocking out their sky. The huge weeping ash will be felled in order to accommodate the extension. Goldfinches nest and roost in this tree. Sparrowhawks use it as a vantage point. The trunk has cavities for bats.

The grass and wildflowers will be paved over – this is an essential food foraging area for blackbirds, blue tits, robins, wrens and many other garden birds. This historic green oasis also helps absorb our illegal levels of pollution.

What on earth were these councillors thinking? This ancient little haven in the city centre will be absolutely desecrated. And once it’s gone, it’s gone forever.

Helen Wilmot

Bath