‘Elvis’ building deserves better

I read with interest the new plans for the house on the corner of St Peter’s Place [Elvis to finally leave building as city eyesore set for revamp, April 7].

It has always been a source of amusement and a “welcome home” to me for the last 40 years to look for Elvis as I rode my motorbike back from Derbyshire. Like others, I have also been dismayed at the neglected state this house has fallen into.

I completely understand the council’s concerns in restoring this house and bringing the corner of the ring-road back to respectability, especially as it is viewed by the many who come to visit the city each year. However, I would question the new usage as it goes against the impression they are trying to achieve.

Also, bearing in mind the residents of that particular area have gone to extraneous efforts to keep their cottages smart and cared for regardless of the heavy traffic, I feel that they deserve better. After all, they have accommodated many changes in the street for the purpose of similar schemes.

Could the cottage not be used again for a family who would not only care for it but may be offered work in the area as before? I understand that we do have a duty to assist the homeless and rightly so! But in this case I would hope that they would reconsider the outcome should they proceed along these lines.

I don’t think the cottage is big enough to warrant the cost of the renovation and regulations. With respect, homeless people are not interested in retro-fit, just a safe place to stay until they get back on their feet.

Maggie Toop

Nackington Road, Canterbury

The so-called “Elvis House’ in St Peter’s Place, Canterbury