While we may for
now have knocked back the planning application ,the much bigger threat is a
change to the local plan. It is vital that you put in an objection along the
lines below and despite the convoluted process [outlined at the bottom of
the page], get as many of our neighbours to put in an objection too before
23rd July.
Dear Sir,
I understand that if the Broxtowe Core Planning Strategy is
adopted in respect of site 220,it will make the building of houses on Hempshill
fields more likely, if this is so I would like to object to such a change. I
understand representations must be made to you before 23rd July.
I would like to object to any weakening of the planning
protection in the local plans of site 220, which can be found at http://www.broxtowe.gov.uk/.ashx?id=23863&p=0CHttpHandler
.This land is currently designated as “protected”. The reference says “The site
is part of a Protected Open Area and could not be developed without a major
policy change, as well as the land being retained for use for the Tram route.
Also adjacent to a listed building and to a Site of Importance for Nature
Conservation, severe topographical constraints, a remote risk of flooding and
possible contaminated land issue also affect the site. It is unlikely that the
entire site would be delivered in totality due to the various constraints
outlined, however even allowing for these constraints the northern part of the
site may possibly deliver approximately 50 houses subject to mitigation of the
issues identified”
So to be clear:
·
I do not want “a major policy change”.
·
The current “Protected Open Area “status should be retained or upgraded.
·
The tram route should be designated.
·
In order to end the constant and corrosive uncertainty for local
residents it should be made clear that no part of the site should be developed
for housing.
Any reduction in planning protection would lead to
A) The tremendous loss of amenity not only for Broxtowe residents but for City residents too especially those from the lower income areas of Bulwell and Broxtowe estate, who also use and enjoy the open space and walks.
B) The attrition of an area which is rich in history and as Hempshill [Hamessel] Farm it appears in the 1086 Domesday Book. It would be wholly inappropriate to change designation which would box in and surround with modern buildings the series of listed buildings (especially the ancient and beautiful historic grade two listed Hall) which straddle the City/Broxtowe boundary. The setting and view to the Hall -which predates Henry VIII -should be uninterrupted.
C) The reduction of ancient footpath and historic right of way through the fields used by dog walkers, strollers and school children which would at worst be lost and at best be walled in. Right of way legislation in respect of diversion of a footpath insists that account be taken of the effect the diversion will have on public enjoyment of the path as a whole. The much used and well loved access to a local oasis of greenery and the Babbington country park beyond would be made unpleasant and potentially unsafe for users. Incidentally, reducing access for people from Broxtowe, Hempshill Vale and Bulwell to Babbington country park will diminish its usage and support and thus tee it up as the next domino to fall to speculative housing ,which I am sure is not intended by the Council.
D) Local people had assumed this green space was protected from speculation. Rather than live with insecurity can the Broxtowe council reaffirm in the clearest of terms that this land is protected and will reject similar applications or deals ("let's just put a few house on part of the site")to wear down the Council and residents in the area and erode and blight the site over time.
E) The City/Borough boundary runs adjacent to this plot and there are a considerable number of properties within the city right up to the proposed site. Those who abut the City/Broxtowe boundary may not be aware of the significance of this moment and its impact on their future. On a recent planning proposal people were not informed of until recent weeks and were not invited to a meeting organised by the developer, nor informed of any other meetings relevant to the future of the site that they overlook. Broxtowe Borough leaflets were not delivered to City homes even though they are the most affected by this site. The process was intended as an aligned approach, this has not been apparent in this case. This is unreasonable and unfair and I hope you can help ensure that this has not happened again in the consultation on these planning changes.
F) I do not object to the NET tram coming through the site, this is not only a much needed and welcomed amenity but was always expected by those who have moved into the area in recent years. The proposed plan does not appear to refer to this.
G) I would ask that the Council commissions its officers to come up with an imaginative and long term scheme for the enhancement of this unique amenity, work with their Planning colleagues in the City of Nottingham to link it more effectively to the Babbington country park[formerly the pit spoil heap],exploring a Trust with local residents to purchase the fields at agricultural value, broaden the understanding of the rich local history of the site and safeguard this gem for future generations.
H) I have concerns over the hydrology of the site. At best it is low lying and damp. At worst it floods. I have witnessed a mini-fountain due to underground hydraulic pressures. If this is mitigated I would ask you to seek full assurances that this will not be to the detriment of any surrounding land or properties.
I would ask that the Borough council ensure that this rare and precious space is left alone and it’s planning status strengthened not eroded for the great benefit of people both sides of the boundary line,
Very many thanks for your consideration and best wishes
Graham Allen MP
Visit:
Fill in Q 1-8,
ignore 9-16,
17-19 click yes,
20 no,
21 yes,
22 Omission site not included in the plan
33-38 your choice but I would click yes
Paste your submission into 40
This will ensure your thoughts are passed to the inspector.
There is to be a further consultation on the “smaller sites” (of
which Hempshill Hall is one) in the Autumn. It is important that you also
submit to that one (same words). Submitting to the present as well is a belt
and braces approach.
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