updated 01 July 2011 14:11:12

Q & A with Simon Clarke, ING

Simon I hear from one Hayle Town Councillor you are going to create gridlock in Hayle?
That is just not true the VISSIM modeling and all the analysis says that the traffic movements will be less than our consented residential scheme.
The Traffic Impact has been scrutinised by Cornwall's highways officers and the highways agency and both found the proposals acceptable. The anticipated traffic generation has been modelled and it clearly shows traffic will be free flowing and congestion will not occur. In fact Cornwall went so far as to recommend our scheme over all the others in highway and accessibility terms. Most people forget that traffic travelling to food stores outside of Hayle is already on the road network.

What is the current consent for?
We received consent to build 260 apartments on three levels across the length of South Quay. The current scheme would replace that scheme. The new proposal creates the lightest development footprint across South Quay because even though South Quay is hugely expensive to regenerate a food store near to the road creates that funding.

Are you taking any on street parking out as the same Town Councillor suggests?
1 space maybe.

Are you advocating parking zoning in Hayle itself as the same Town Councillor says?
No that information is incorrect.

You have permission for 260 dwellings how many are included in the new scheme?
30 houses.

How much have you invested in this scheme already?
Around £20 million.

What is the projected investment?
Up to £220 million.

How much does the harbour cost to operate?
Around 300,000 per annum.

How can it stay open?
Its imperative that we get development under way and see the benefit of service charges on tenants.

The fishermen won't land their catch on South Quay-is that right?
Yes they will land at a new facility on North Quay.

Turning to the retailer only Tesco is not represented, so you are working with Tesco?
No that's not true. Our preferred partner is one of the 3 competing against us – they are all tied in to contract and hence for legal reasons we can't say who.

Is it right you are giving the tip or Point of South Quay to the community for arts, theatre and music events?
Yes and I suppose based on other people’s figures its about a £5million gift.

The Cinema is a great part of the plan – what will it consist of?
Two screens and will be run as a ground breaking social enterprise to put money back into community projects.

How can a Social enterprise afford the lease?
It will be a long lease at £1 per year.

What about Parking?
The new food store will have free for 2 hr parking on the quay.

Is the footbridge still in the plans?
Most definitely.

On the subject of the Out of Town food stores at Loggans – did you offer to become involved?
Yes we offered to redevelop the Rugby Club house at Memorial Park but we haven't heard from them?

Are you a football man then Simon?

No most of the ING team played Rugby or have offspring who do. I just believe the town and rugby club can work together to redevelop Memorial Park. After all they have been there since 1948.

So what's the difference with your scheme?
We regenerate a town not a site.

You think its that important?
For 30 years people have been arguing over Hayle Harbour – all the pieces are in place to regenerate Hayle. Miss this boat and I am not sure another one will come along in my lifetime.

 

Simon Clarke is National Acquisitions Director of ING RED UK.

Archived 13th July 2011