The former Meadowcroft Surgery in Aylesbury, which was tragically consumed by a deliberate fire on August 25th, had been the subject of a housing application. The intent was to replace the building with 26 affordable homes, pending assessment.
The developer aimed to demolish the existing two-story structure and replace it with a three-story building supporting 26 apartments, including nine one-bedroom units, 14 two-bedroom flats, and three three-bedroom apartments.
The project also included a landscape scheme and parking area alterations. Notably, this marked the second attempt by the developer, Thrive Homes, after a 31-dwelling project had been rejected in 2022.
Despite the aspirations for affordable housing, two residents raised objections, expressing concerns about privacy issues due to potential overlooking of gardens and bedrooms.
An ongoing investigation into the deliberate destruction of the former surgery has led to four arrests, involving three boys aged 12 to 15 and a 14-year-old girl, all from Aylesbury. They were apprehended on suspicion of arson and were released on bail until November 14th.
The fire was of such magnitude that emergency services advised Meadowcroft area residents to close doors and windows. The thick plumes of smoke were detectable from half a mile away, prompting the dispatch of eight fire engines from four different counties.
Fortunately, only two individuals required treatment for smoke inhalation, and there were no other reported injuries, as confirmed by Thames Valley Police last week.
Source: Bucks Herald
