Thomas takes contractors to task over ‘slow’ development

A Southport resident is putting pressure on housing developers and Sefton Council to speed up the demolition of the former Phillips Factory on Balmoral Drive, which is being removed to make way for 157 homes and 6,000 square metres of public space.

Thomas de Freitas has raised concerns over the shaking of homes surrounding the demolition site, the high number of HGVs passing, noise levels from drilling, and dust lining nearby roads and driveways.

The original demolition was planned to take a matter of weeks, however around seven months later the works are still nowhere near completion – leading to delays in the overall project.

Thomas said:

“Local residents around the demolition site – in areas such as North Road, Rufford Road, Roselea Drive, and Merlewood Avenue – are unhappy about the length of time the demolition has been taking and the impact it is having on the community. 

“We need more clarity. And we need to know exactly when the demolition will be completed, and then exactly how long the overall housing project will take.

“We also need Sefton Council to ensure that residents feel safe and secure in their own homes. Where there are any concerns raised about shaking and vibrations, or excessive noise, the Council need to make sure the developers fully investigate those concerns and respond.”

Thomas says that he has written to both Sefton Council and the developers, Elan Homes, about local resident concerns.

Thomas and local residents are supported by Southport MP Damien Moore. 

Damien Moore MP said: 

“I think the majority of residents accept that something had to be done about the factory. Whatever people’s misgivings about building additional houses, ensuring that the land is converted in a way that protects the livelihoods of local residents has to be a priority. 

“We can’t have a situation where residents are being told to put up with ground vibrations potentially damaging homes, with no end date in sight. 

“I hope the representations which have been made at the very least provide some clarity for local residents.”