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Once upon a time Caldecotte Lake was just that, a lake. In fact that's it on the lower right. Now some 21 years on it has a thriving community and a wealth of social activities. As the second largest lake in Milton Keynes it has fast become one of the locations for enjoying sailing, canoeing, cycling, running, fishing, bird watching or just simply a quiet stroll close to nature. However, in 2004 all that was put at risk with the proposal for a development of a 6 (yes, six!) storey "Hotel" on the lake promontory. Strangely enough, whilst an area has been identified for some years as a "future Hotel site" this has never included the promontory. These initial Plans were submitted in July 2004 an overview of what had been proposed can be seen within our Planned Development section. Since that time we have achieved significant major wins; Firstly, on October 13th 2004, MK Planning Committee voted unanimously to REJECT the initial Proposals. Councilors were heard to state that they were some of the worst plans ever submitted. Secondly, on March 15th 2005, MK Council Cabinet voted to recommend that the Caldecotte Promontories are retained as Open Space in the latest Local Plan thereby returning them to their rightful and previous designation. This status was again confirmed at a further Cabinet Meeting on October 18th 2005. Thirdly, despite the Planning Committee granting planning permission for the revised plans on October 12th 2005, these no longer include any building on the promontory, there is NO Restaurant, NO Bar and NO Shops plus the building designs are far more in keeping with the area. Don't get us wrong, there are still things we would like changed and we will continue to press the Developer for further changes specifically in height and density. So, a very BIG "Thank You" to everyone who helped us win these battles and importantly attended the Council meetings in support of our fight. However, it is not over yet! As the saying goes, Two Battles may have been Won but the War continues.... We know and understand that there will be development on the remaining land and have worked with the Developer thinking we were helping them design a scheme that is in keeping with the existing developments and the Caldecotte area itself. This is, after all, an infill site and that fact should, we think, be a major consideration as they select content, layout, style and importantly materials. Not all of our input has been included in the latest designs and we will continue to push for further changes as and whenever possible. This website exists to ensure that all interested parties, both local residents and users of this idyllic location, are kept up-to-date with this proposed development. And if you are not a resident and don't think it really affects you then consider this ... If they had got away with this type of development at such an idyllic location then watch out the rest of Milton Keynes! Please check back frequently for updates and feel free to send in any comments or importantly information to assist us in the next battle. Spread the Word! Posters and car Stickers now available for download. (Click here to go to our Download page) |
Great News At meeting of the MK Cabinet held on Tuesday 18th October they agreed that the Promontories should be returned to Open Space within the emerging Local Plan.
One of the lovely sunsets over Caldecotte Lake
Caldecotte Lake before ANY development at all |
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Site Last Updated on Tuesday October 25th 2005
What was in store for Caldecotte had the Developers had their way! Thanks to your help and support their plans have been rejected and the Promontories are saved as Open Space for all to enjoy.
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