A GROUP of frustrated residents say their ‘estate has been ruined’ after work has commenced on the second phase of the huge Redditch Gateway development.

The first of two warehouse units are being built as part of Stoford’s multi-million-pound scheme off the Coventry Highway.

However, residents living in Winyates Green opposite the second phase of the gateway scheme are now confronted with a towering warehouse structure which has been compared to a rollercoaster and ‘wouldn’t look out of place at Alton Towers’.

The majority of the scheme is spilt between Bromsgrove district to the north and Stratford district to the south with a small portion in Redditch borough.

Stratford District Council say they cannot comment on residents’ concerns about the gateway scheme as there is an ongoing enforcement case and any alleged planning breaches are being investigated.

Redditch Advertiser: Thew view of the warehouse from Illshaw Close.Thew view of the warehouse from Illshaw Close. (Image: NQ)

Stoford say they ensuring the work is being delivered with as 'little disruption as possible'.

Pam Oldfield, who lives on the estate said: “When the structure went up it was a shock, it’s a lot higher than we were expecting.

“We don’t know who is occupying the building which is really important as we don't know the type of work they will be doing, working hours, and how it will affect noise and air pollution.”

Another resident, Pat Rowley, said it's ‘unbelievable’ how quickly the structure was built as it took a maximum of 10 days.

Jackie Lee feels the whole estate has been ‘stitched up’ as they already suffer from ‘inconsiderate parking’ from businesses on Far Moor Lane and the new units will ‘make it worse’.

She said: “It’s disgraceful.

Redditch Advertiser: View from Illshaw Close.View from Illshaw Close. (Image: NQ)

“As there is set to be a pathway built from the gateway to Winyates Green, people who work there will be walking through the estate and parking on the closes.”

Tony Bartlam, who lives on Illshaw Close, is recovering from a stroke and said: “I have to sit on my sofa looking out the window and instead of trees I’m looking at that monstrosity.

“It’s affecting my mental health”.

Once built, the new net zero units will provide almost 450,000 sq ft of logistics accommodation.

Phase one of the scheme saw the development of a new 534,000 sq ft warehouse building that was pre-let to Amazon.

Chair of Winyates Green Residents Association, Mark Crompton, said: “We feel like we are being dumped on.

“Stratford District Council haven’t spoken to us – they’re quick at passing the plans but not thought of the consequences.

“This monstrosity has been built and when are the trees going to be put up to shield at least some of the warehouse?

“We have been dealt a rough deal.”

Following concerns, Redditch Borough Council leader Matt Dormer met with residents on Wednesday, June 21.

He said: “I’m here to support.

“We are where we are with the Redditch Gateway – it’s about mitigation now.

“It’s about how we can lessen the impact and make sure there are no more problems.

“I was against this from day one for an employment site.

“I will work with developers and the residents to get some sort of natural screening up.”

Stoford and contractor Winvic said: “Works are progressing at Redditch Gateway as approved by local planning authorities.

“Our teams on site continue to adhere to the latest working practices to ensure the programme is delivered quickly and safely, with as little disruption as possible.”