Diary date?

We have been informed that 18 May 2010 is the earliest date for the public inquiry into the BTP compulsory purchase orders. The exact date has yet to be confirmed.

VCB debut meeting success

On Wednesday evening we attended the first VeraCityBath Limited public meeting in Batheaston. There was an excellent turnout with around 80 people having to stand.

The Company directors gave a presentation which updated attendees on the legal challenges against the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government and B&NES Council. In addition, there was information on the public inquiry into the compulsory purchase orders associated with the Bath Transportation Package.

Naturally there was a call for new members and help with funds for legal expenses – details can be found on the VCB blog.

Public meeting announcement

Legal challenge launched

Today VeraCityBath Limited (VCB) announced that it has launched judicial review proceedings with regard to the controversial Bath Transportation Package. The filed application is against the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government with B&NES Council as an interested party.

VCB believes the Secretary of State should have called for a public inquiry into the planning applications for a new park and ride in Batheaston and the joint application for an extension to the Newbridge park and ride and the bus rapid transit route.

A judge has awarded VCB an interim protected costs order to limit its liability against costs up until the case is considered by the judge, when it will seek an extension to the order.

Leading public law experts Harrison Grant and Nathalie Lieven QC and David Blundell of counsel, are representing VCB.

We will keep you informed of progress.

Deadline: Friday 15 January 2010

The deadline for registering your opinion with the core strategy spatial options' consultation is Friday 15 January 2010. You can comment on line by clicking here. Look out for point 3.19 which refers to the BTP, might be worth posting something about this if nothing else.

Friday is also the cut off date for completing the questionnaire on the environment and pollution in Bath. See our post 'Pollution stalemate?' for more information.

New boy in town...

On Thursday 7 January 2010, the Liberal Democrats' leader, Nick Clegg MP, is coming to Bath for an open question and answer session. The meeting is scheduled to run from

6.30 - 7.45 p.m. at St. Michael's Church, Broad Street.

If you would like to attend click here to register.