By Julian Whittle

Published at 11:26, Friday, 04 April 2008

CARLISLE City Council has denied claims that it has a “secret agenda” to demolish homes in Corporation Road and Peter Street.

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Save Our Streets, which is campaigning against plans to redevelop the Rickergate area, took its fight to the council chamber on Tuesday.

Warwick Street resident Simon Osman asked why the council was negotiating to buy property in Corporation Road and Peter Street if neither was earmarked for demolition.

He said: “This policy gives no clarity or comfort for residents who think there is a secret agenda.”

The council has set aside £2m to buy property for its Carlisle Renaissance scheme. In Rickergate, the aim is to demolish the Civic Centre, police and fire stations, magistrates court and homes in Warwick Street.

They would be replaced by a plaza with shops and offices, and probably a four-star hotel/conference centre.

Council leader Mike Mitchelson said the council might buy property in Corporation Road and Peter Street but only to make sure that it was managed properly. He added: “Our development framework states that the city council wishes to see the retention of Corporation Road and Peter Street.”

Another Save Our Streets campaigner, Julie Templeton, also questioned Mr Mitchelson under the council’s public participation procedure. But he denied her claim that decisions about Rickergate “were being made behind closed doors and in secret”.

Mr Mitchelson said: “Decisions are in accordance with the council’s constitution. There is open debate and consultation at every stage.”

JWhittle@cngroup.co.uk

Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk