Fury over demolition (From Barry And District News)

Fury over demolition

BARRY Island residents are furious they were not warned about the demolition of the Clive Road steps.

Bulldozers demolished the bottom half of the steps, owned by Associated British Ports (ABP), in the early hours of Friday, January 22.

Clive Road resident Graham Gwilliam said: "The last time they tried, we staged a sit in and turned them away.

"We wanted a chance to compromise, even though the steps had been closed.

"We're upset they were so sneaky. We only found out when the noise woke us.

"But we're not giving up. We put in a dossier to the Vale of Glamorgan Council about the right of way. And Jane Hutt has been a massive help."

Assembly Member for the Vale, Hutt said: "I have been working with the Barry Island Residents Association over the past year, to find a way forward to re-open this vital link between the Island and the Waterfront.

"We have made progress at meetings involving ABP, the Vale Council, the WDA and local residents. The regeneration of Barry is progressing well and this vital link must be part of this.

"Island residents of all ages without cars have suffered as a result of the closure of these steps. I believe this would be a 'win win' for all involved if ABP and the Vale Council acted now to replace these steps.

"A temporary solution should be sought whilst the wider plans for the South Quay are developed, which must include a public consultation."

Leader of the Vale of Glamorgan Council, Jeffrey James, said: "These steps are totally in the ownership of ABP. The decision to close and, ultimately, demolish the steps is solely a matter for ABP and not one which this council and its cabinet has considered. "

An ABP spokesman added: "I have not looked into this matter fully, and, as such, I cannot comment on events. But I will investigate the matter."