Campion House development gets the go-ahead

Protesters are disappointed that the conversion of the former seminary at the heart of the Spring Grove Conservation area is to go ahead despite their concerns.

David Pavett of campaign group Campion Concerns, told the Chronicle: "We hoped for another result but we weren't confident so it's not a total shock.

"Our campaign has been well worth it, because what they are proposing is significantly better.

"We have secured big improvements so our actions have not been in vain."

Developers Linden Homes had their application to build 154 homes on the Thornbury Road land rejected three times and appealed the decision on all occasions, now finally getting the go ahead following the most recent three day enquiry.

Councillors and protesters agree that the latest set of plans, which were rejected in December, have been by far the best.

However many still have serious concerns about the buildings encroaching on land specified as Public Open Space and the lack of family housing included.

Linden Homes plan to demolish the more modern out buildings on the land and create 13 new ones while converting the listed buildings on the site, Tigar Hall and Campion House, to provide a community facility, IT suite and exhibition space.

In the inspector's appeal decision document he said: "I find that the development would not harm, and would preserve, the character and appearance of the locality and the Spring Grove Conservation Area whilst simultaneously enhancing the setting of Campion House."