Developer responds to Aylesbury pub's concerns ahead of demonstration
The company behind a recently-opened apartment complex in Aylesbury has defended its practices ahead of a demonstration from a nearby pub.
However, the Craftyard pub which lies just metres away from the new 46-apartment scheme has raised a number of concerns regarding how the project has affected its trading and could cause it further problems going forward.
Owners of the pub, which has similar venues in Tring and Wendover, raised complaints regarding dust and debris which had travelled from the site into its outdoor seating area.
Further concerns regarding the building, which was formerly used by Bucks Council, questioned why the former office complex was earmarked for housing in the first place given its close proximity to a popular lively bar and whether the live music venue could keep access to a gate which is used as a fire escape.
Berkshire-based company Oakfield Homes indicated that its attempts to investigate dust issues had not progressed further due to a lack of evidence being provided by Craftyard.
A spokesperson said: “From correspondence received, we believed the primary issue related to alleged damage to a canopy from construction dust and debris.
"To be able to consider any such claim, we requested in writing, a report from their canopy supplier together with photographic evidence of the alleged damage. However, to date, no such report or photographs have been received.
“Throughout the construction, Oakford Homes has taken preventative steps to mitigate the impact of dust and debris arising from our works. Whilst dust is an unavoidable element of construction activity, Oakford Homes have consistently sought to ensure this is kept to a minimum. Appropriate measures were implemented to minimise any impact on neighbouring properties and businesses, in accordance with the requirements and measures set out within our construction management plan approved by the council.”
Craftyard previously announced plans to host a peaceful demonstration at its premises this Saturday and its offering participants brief access to complimentary drinks during the event.
Oakford Homes also addressed concerns regarding the sales of the property in the statement it sent to The Bucks Herald. A spokesperson for the business added: “Prospective purchasers are made aware of the presence of the Craftyard, along with its licensed operations to enable our buyers to make a fully informed decision prior to proceeding with a purchase.
“In addition, information provided to all purchasers' legal representation/solicitors specifically refers to Craftyard Aylesbury, its status as a neighbouring licensed premises.”
"Our position is that appropriate disclosure has and will continue to be made,” they added.
Regarding the loss of the gate, which Craftyard warned would limit wheelchair users ability to access the bar, the developer said in response: “Throughout the construction period, temporary access has been maintained via a hoarded gateway. Craftyard was recently given notice this access would need to be closed and blocked from the end of September whilst works are undertaken in this area for safety.
“At the time of giving notice, no decision had been made as to whether access to the exit would be able to be maintained, as there is no legal right of way within the legal title and both Oakford Homes and the Council need to review this.
“We understand that this exit was only formed during the pandemic as a means of social distancing and prior to that, Craftyard had been able to accommodate wheelchair users via an alternative access. The same goes for a fire escape.”
Bucks Council said it was aware of complaints regarding the construction but said: “As you'd expect with a construction site, some level of dust, noise and disruption is inevitable. However, our officers will be making enquiries to ensure appropriate measures are in place to keep any impact on neighbouring businesses and the local community to a minimum.”
Previously the authority had championed the scheme as one of its key projects in regenerating Aylesbury town centre by repurposing underused buildings. Enquiries can be made about the newly created flats: one-bed apartments are on sale at a starting price of £169,950, two-bed flats are available from £229,950.
Oakford Homes has described its recently completed project as containing “design-forward apartments” that “sit comfortably behind the former Buckinghamshire County Council’s office façade – classically neo Georgian in style and integral to Aylesbury’s character mix”.