Centre in Rickmansworth to be torn down for temporary accommodation

The former Royal Voluntary Service centre in Bury Lane, Rickmansworth, will be demolished to make way for 17 flats to be used as temporary accommodation for homeless families.

The decision was made at last night's Three Rivers District Council planning committee, but was met with opposition from residents and councillors alike including Cllr Ross Sangster, who spoke against the application.

Cllr David Sansom has also raised concerns about the size of accommodation blocks.

READ MORE: 'Council prioritises profit over people's lives': Councillor slams plans for homeless accommodation in Rickmansworth

Philip McAteer of Wensum Way, said he was married in the centre 53 years ago and believes it should be revamped for the community rather than building up on a conservation area.

Mr McAteer said he felt objections from councillors and residents "did make a blind bit of difference", and that very little time was given for people to make their arguments.

He also said he was told the police would be called after he made verbal objections.

He said: "The accommodation they are proposing is sub-standard and it is not fit for purpose."

Rosalind Shelley, of Salters Close, said there were queues out the door to get into the “extremely heated” debate.

She said: "Residents felt their voices were not listened to.

"We are supposed to be living in a democracy.

"It was as though it was already decided."

Steven Halls, chief executive of Three Rivers District Council, who attended the meeting, said "Council staff ensured that all residents who wished to attend the meeting were able to do so. 

"On a number of occasions, members of the public were asked not to interrupt or shout over those who were speaking, and were told that they would be asked to leave if they did not allow the meeting to go ahead.

"I am pleased to say that this was not necessary, no member of the public was asked or forced to leave and the police were not called."