PICTURE: Transformation plan will turn the iconic Point in Milton Keynes into a 'garish shed', say critics
Outline planning permission was granted four years ago for The Point at CMK to be demolished and replaced with a retail and leisure development.
But the final design plan has only just been submitted by owners Hammerson’s – and it was immediately slammed by city campaign group Xplain.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdNow MK Council’s development control councillors voted not to give their final approval until members of the public have been given a chance to have their say.
A fresh public workshop will be held on June 6 for Hammerson’s plans to be scrutinised.
At the council meeting, Xplain chairman Linda Inoki claimed the company worked “in total isolation from the community” to produce their own design code to deliver a “garish retail shed”.
She said previous consultation workshops had been un-advertised, poorly attended and one-sided.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdCouncillor Paul Williams (Labour) said he was not invited to the workshops despite being a CMK ward councillor.
Tory John Bint described Hammerson’s design as “something that looks as if it’s been cut and pasted from a catalogue”, while Councillor Rex Exon (Lib dem) asked: “Where is the vision? This is a big square box. Why not use the land available to create something fantastic rather than just another retail box?”
Hammerson’s say they have fulfilled requirements for The Point site to produce a very high quality design in conjunction with local citizens.
The company’s architect said they had produced the design code with council officers and believed that it would “produce a quality, landmark building”.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdBut outgoing development control chairman Councillor Derek Eastman said: “We’re looking for better public engagement and substantial improvement.”
READ MORE: