Testun llawn:
1. Significant Existing Local Opposition
This site is already highly contested. Proceeding with inclusion despite strong and sustained community opposition demonstrates a disregard for local residents and the principles of meaningful public consultation.
2. Impact on Overstretched Infrastructure
Local infrastructure is already under considerable strain. Roads around the motorway junction experience congestion, particularly at peak times. Additional development would exacerbate traffic pressures, increase pollution, and heighten safety risks. There is no clear evidence that supporting infrastructure—roads, schools, healthcare, drainage, and utilities—can accommodate further demand without significant and disruptive upgrades.
3. Loss of Green Belt Land
The proposal includes designated Green Belt land. The purpose of Green Belt policy is to prevent urban sprawl, safeguard the countryside from encroachment, and preserve the setting of historic settlements. Development in this location directly undermines these objectives. There are no demonstrated “exceptional circumstances” that justify such loss.
4. Harm to a Historic and Picturesque Village
The adjacent village has been established for hundreds of years and retains a distinct rural character. Its historic setting, landscape views, and identity would be irreparably harmed by large-scale development at its boundary. Once lost, this character cannot be restored.
5. Inadequate Access and Unsuitable Location
The village itself lacks suitable access to accommodate the scale of development proposed. The surrounding road network was never designed for significant expansion. Increased traffic would fundamentally alter the quiet, rural nature of the area.
6. Environmental and Landscape Impact
The site forms part of a valued landscape that contributes to the character and amenity of the area. Development at a motorway junction in such a sensitive rural setting would introduce urbanisation, noise, light pollution, and visual intrusion.
For the reasons outlined above, this site is neither sustainable nor appropriate for allocation. I strongly urge the Council to reject its inclusion and instead prioritise brownfield sites or more suitable locations that do not compromise Green Belt land, historic villages, or already pressured infrastructure.
