Windermere and Bowness Town Council has voiced its concerns regarding the proposed conversion of a guest house into a drinking establishment. The council argues that the plan, put forward by developer Bowness Bay Investments, should be refused due to the already high number of bars in the area and the resulting increase in anti-social behavior.
Citing the rise in reports of violent crime and anti-social behavior over the past five to 10 years, the council claims that there is a direct correlation with the increase in the number of bars in Bowness. This has placed a significant strain on local policing resources, according to Cumbria Police. The force is urging the applicant to engage in a meeting to discuss public safety considerations.
The proposed establishment, situated in the Grade II listed Laurel Cottage, has been described as a “bar too far” by the town council. They argue that the conversion would be out of place considering the already numerous drinking establishments in the heart of Bowness.
While the planning documents suggest that the new establishment would complement existing local businesses, the council raises concerns about the potential for further anti-social behavior. With limited resources, the local police are finding it increasingly challenging to maintain law and order in the face of these escalating issues.
The town council’s opposition to the conversion serves as a reminder of the need to strike a balance between economic development and community well-being. It highlights the importance of considering the social impacts of such projects and engaging in constructive dialogue between developers and local authorities to ensure public safety remains a priority.
FAQ Section:
Q: What is the main concern of Windermere and Bowness Town Council regarding the proposed conversion of the guest house?
A: The main concern of the council is the already high number of bars in the area and the potential increase in anti-social behavior that may result from the conversion.
Q: What evidence does the council cite as a basis for their concern?
A: The council cites the rise in reports of violent crime and anti-social behavior over the past five to 10 years, which they believe is directly linked to the increase in the number of bars in Bowness. Cumbria Police also support this claim.
Q: What is the response of the local police force to the proposed conversion?
A: The local police force is urging the applicant to engage in a meeting to discuss public safety considerations, as they believe the strain on policing resources will further increase with the addition of another drinking establishment.
Q: How does the town council describe the proposed establishment?
A: The council describes the proposed establishment as a “bar too far” and argues that it would be out of place considering the already numerous drinking establishments in the heart of Bowness.
Q: What concerns does the council raise about the potential for further anti-social behavior?
A: While the planning documents suggest that the new establishment would complement existing local businesses, the council raises concerns about the potential for more anti-social behavior. Limited resources make it challenging for local police to maintain law and order in the face of these escalating issues.
Q: What does the opposition of the town council highlight?
A: The opposition of the town council highlights the need to strike a balance between economic development and community well-being. It emphasizes the importance of considering the social impacts of such projects and engaging in constructive dialogue between developers and local authorities to ensure public safety remains a priority.
Definitions:
– Drinking establishment: A place where alcoholic beverages are sold and consumed.
– Anti-social behavior: Behavior that is disruptive or harmful to others in the community.
– Grade II listed: A designation in the United Kingdom given to buildings of special architectural or historic interest.
Suggested Links:
Windermere and Bowness Town Council Official Website