TO THE COMMUNITY OF PEOPLE LIVING IN BOTLEY, NORTH HINKSEY, CUMNOR, DEAN COURT ANDSURROUNDING AREAS.

Over the past several years we have witnessed an unprecedented level of animosity, bordering on hostility, over plans to redevelop our shopping precinct.

In my pastoral role in this community, I have heard many voices lament, at times with tears, the fact that we have been torn apart socially and emotionally over what should, and should not, be part of the redevelopment. I have heard many bemoan the fact, their voice of moderation has gone unheard, muted, if not silenced.

It has been particularly painful for members in our congregation and myself, to hear our friends and neighbours assert material facts about ourselves, which have no basis in truth.

An exhaustive list of all that is bad and not right about the scheme has been articulated – many doubt if there is anything negative left to say.

As Managing Trustee representing one of several landowners in the Botley redevelopment scheme, I have witnessed the huge amount of well-intentioned time and effort put in by various groups, organisations and companies.

Whatever the merits and demerits of structure, design and ethos of the scheme, it is now time to put aside the negativity and acrimony of the past.

It is now time to work with planners, builders and developers, to ensure the development will be of a quality and standard we will be proud to call our own.

It is now time to look forward with anticipation, how we use all the facilities being made available to us.

It is now time, to build bridges across all segments of our community, to reach out and attend to the real needs of the voiceless and the dispossessed among us, those struggling and grappling with the demands of life – of health, welfare, family and finances.

It is now time, to look forward with anticipation, to release the potential in our community for the benefit of all.

This plea is on behalf of those who yearn to hear a fresh language of peace and hope, of optimism, harmony and reconciliation.

Rev KALYAN DAS
Minister, Botley Baptist Church