A row has kicked-off over fears the ancient history of a town is being destroyed.
The controversial Moat Lane development in Towcester has again come under fire from opposition councillors who claim South Northamptonshire Council (SNC) is ignoring advice and destroying the area’s heritage.
The authority’s development control committee voted to permit the demolition of ‘historic walls’ within the development as part of the regeneration of the site.
Liberal Democrat, Councillor Chris Lofts, said: “SNC has ignored custom and practice by mass clearance of many ancient features before they even know what is to replace them.
“Once again they have adopted one rule for themselves, any other developer wouldn’t get away with such cavalier demolition of Towcester’s heritage.
“The Moat Lane project is supposed to enhance Towcester’s historic heart. What we will be left with is a featureless development site with modern buildings that could be in any town. If this was happening in a village elsewhere in the district SNC Tories would be up in arms.” In response, Cllr Stephen Clarke, chairman of the committee, said: “On balance the public benefit outweighed the need to retain the walls within Moat Lane.
Therefore, the committee voted to demolish them.
“The proposed scheme will be of a high architectural design, making a positive contribution to the appearance and quality of the historic environment of Moat Lane, and it will revitalise Towcester as a whole.
“The decision was taken properly and in line with good corporate governance without breaking or bending any rules.”
