Councillor calls public meeting over Eye Infirmary student plans

Labour Councillor for Drake Ward, Chaz Singh, has called an open public meeting following news that the new owners of the old Eye Infirmary building have submitted a planning application to change the plans for the historic building.

The building currently has planning permission for conversion into flats and residential spaces for the elderly.

Cllr Chaz Singh said: "Residents in Drake do not want the old Eye Infirmary turned into student accommodation and the fear of many will be any change of use could be intended for student accommodation. Let me be clear: students make an important contribution to our city and I support dedicated proper student developments close to campus but the Eye Infirmary is not suitable for conversion into student housing.

"I want to make sure that local residents know about the developer's plans and have their chance to have their say as soon as possible. We cannot wait until the planning process kicks in. My priority is speaking up for residents and I'm calling this open public meeting so that every step of the way residents can have their say."

"To turn the building into student accommodation the City Council's Planning Committee would need to change the planned use of the building and I want to make sure local residents' have their voice heard. We need more information from the developer as soon as possible so that residents can properly consider the implications of any change of use."

Luke Pollard, Labour's Parliamentary Candidate for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport added: "The Eye Infirmary is a landmark local building and converting it into homes for local people and dedicated homes for the elderly was widely supported by residents. From speaking to local people in the area I know that there are serious concerns about converting the building into student halls. We need a proper public debate around this development and I'm pleased Chaz is leading the way by calling an open public meeting."

A representative from Eagle One Homes, the developer, has been invited to the public meeting.

Cllr Chaz Singh will chair the discussion and residents are invited to attend the meeting being held at Grace Christian Centre on Gordon Terrace from 3pm to 5pm on Saturday 12 July 2014. All residents and interested groups are welcome to attend.

For further information contact Chaz Singh on 01752 269180 or email chaz.singh@plymouth.gov.uk