We have backed the Woolton Society and local residents in their objection to the creation of a 'care village' (planning application 12F/0196 & 12L/0197) within the grounds of Knolle Park, the listed building at the junction of Beaconsfield Road and Church Road. Beaconsfield Road forms the boundary of the Gateacre Society's area, and as members will know from recent talks we take a keen interest in its history and environment.

In our letter of objection, we stated that "We have no objection in principle to the creation of a 'care village' within the grounds of Knolle Park. Such a development would, if sensitively designed and implemented, enable elderly people and their visitors to enjoy the amenities provided by the landscaped grounds. We feel, however, that the word 'village' is not an accurate description for the current proposal. The new buildings shown on the drawings are too tall, and their footprint occupies too much of the existing Green Space (particularly when the associated car parking areas are taken into account)."

The planning application was withdrawn on 9th May, which is presumably an indication that the proposal is to be re-thought and (hopefully) scaled down.