We petition the Planning Inspectorate in Bristol to reject County Gate's application to develop the garages at 29 Charles Street. County Gate proposes to demolish the existing garages, and in their place build six houses, two flats, office space and underground parking for 36 cars. We object for the following reasons: INCREASED TRAFFIC - Potentially, an additional 27 cars will use Charles Street, Cross Street and Thorne Street for access, in this already congested area. PEDESTRIAN SAFETY - The entrance is across Thorne passage, a busy thoroughfare for parents walking children to Barnes Primary. LOSS OF COMMERCIAL PREMISES - Most of the garages are used to store vehicles or business tools and equipment. The proposed development does not replace these storage units. BASEMENT EXCAVATION - The proposed 5-metre-deep basement poses a number of threats: 1. Potential obstruction of groundwater flows. 2. Short, medium and long term risk to adjacent properties. 3. Dangerous precedent that could open the floodgates to Barnes basement construction. OVER-DEVELOPMENT - The proposed development is excessive and unreasonable, with buildings too close to existing houses in Elm Bank Gardens and Charles Street. STYLE - The ultra-modern design of the proposed development does not sit well, or enhance the Victorian and Edwardian architecture adjacent to it. This proposed development is not what Little Chelsea or the local community wants and we respectfully request that the Planning Inspectorate reject this application.

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