Green Party Criticized as Councillors Miss Key Vote After Meeting Break

A recent meeting of the Norwich City Council’s planning committee concerning the demolition of the former Debenhams store ended in controversy. The council was to decide on a proposal for nearly 400 student flats at the location. However, two Green Party councillors left before the vote, leading to a reversal of an earlier decision to reject the plan.

Key Meeting Highlights

Initially, the planning committee voted to block the application with a narrow margin of five to four, also featuring one abstention. The vote split along party lines, with Labour councillors favoring the proposal, while the Green councillors opposed it. After a 15-minute adjournment, it was revealed that Green councillors Charlie Caine and Jenny Knight had left the meeting.

This absence shifted the vote from four against to three in favor of the proposal, resulting in its approval. The Green Party’s actions during this critical vote have faced sharp criticism.

Responses from Councillors

• Jenny Knight stated that both councillors had informed officers of their obligations prior to leaving. She expressed disappointment over the timing.
• A Labour source described the incident as indicative of “Green chaos” and suggested that the party should reconsider their roles if they can’t fulfill their duties.

The absence of the two councillors has drawn scrutiny, especially since they were part of a group that has been criticized for their attendance records. In the past year, Green councillors accounted for 64% of absences in council meetings, starkly contrasted with 32% for Labour.

Background on the Controversial Development

The proposal to demolish the Debenhams building has encountered significant opposition. University of East Anglia officials argue there is insufficient demand for additional student accommodations, noting that several apartments on campus remain vacant. Furthermore, conservation groups have raised concerns about the potential loss of the historic structure, emphasizing the need to protect it.

Despite this, council staff support the proposal, asserting that transforming the unused building into student housing is the most viable option. The council’s obligation to meet housing demands has heightened the urgency for approving new developments.

Future Considerations

As the debate over student housing and the preservation of historical sites continues, the outcome of this meeting may serve as a catalyst for future discussions in the city. The Green Party’s attendance issues and the chaotic nature of the vote have added to the ongoing scrutiny of their role within the council.

Overall, the vote to approve the demolition of the Debenhams store highlights the complex balance between development needs and community concerns in Norwich.