Liverpool’s Green Councillors were aware of the plans to build allotments at Beloe Street and had been content, on balance, for that to go ahead. Late in the day, the Green Party was approached by neighbouring residents who were unhappy that their elected representatives were not listening to them. We agreed that those residents deserved representation and agreed that Martin Dobson would attend the planning committee to speak on their behalf.
In the course of discussions with those residents, Martin formed a personal view that although he agrees with the general Green Party position that allotments are a good thing that particular piece of public open space should not be turned into allotments.
Having taken a detailed look at the plans, Liverpool Green Party has taken the view that the design could be improved to retain some element of open space without compromising the intention to create allotments at this site in particular the importance of the freedom to walk along the grassed ridge at Beloe Street and enjoy the view of the River and the Welsh Mountains should be recognised.