People want quality, sustainable homes

I was a first-time candidate in the local council elections held on May 4, 2023, representing the Conservatives Party.

I want to share the feedback I have received from residents across Maidenhead about their views on the regeneration of the town centre and development of new housing in Maidenhead.

Residents extensively complained about high-rise apartment blocks in Maidenhead and proposed development of the golf course.

They do not want any housing to be built on the greenbelt.

On one hand they were concerned about the quality of housing and high-rise apartments and on the other they would preferred houses with gardens.

They prefer the use of brownfield sites

but not in their immediate neighbourhood and they were also keen on developing affordable housing for their next generation.

At times, these demands and views seemed contradictory.

However, a simpler explanation from residents drew comparisons with Marlow and Henley.

Some residents said we don’t want to become like Slough and Reading.

They want to be more like Richmond upon Thames and not a newly developed commuter hub in East London.

I am aware that I am not being politically correct (no offence to Slough, Reading or East London) but I want to share the raw and honest feedback that I have received on the door step.

In summary they want Maidenhead to have a unique character and want beautiful and sustainable housing that will last the test of time.

This is not a party-political discussion.

Current and future council administrations will need to be more consultative with the residents of Maidenhead while developing regeneration and development policies.

One possible solution that can help is a New Local Design Code based on the residents’ feedback that can work with the Borough Local Plan.

A brand-new set of guidelines for regeneration and housing development in the Maidenhead need to be devised to ensure that future homes meet residents’ expectations for design, quality, beauty and sustainability.