Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople Development Plan Document

Disagree

I would like to object to the proposed Traveller site off Water Lane in Bearsted. The site is completely unsuitable for any potential change of use / development, whether it be for a traveller site or a housing development. There is no estimate of the number of pitches that would be made available on the site, however, given its size, it could be assumed a significant number. Water Lane is a single track road with no pavements in either direction, apart from where the M20 and train line have been built. There is a narrow railway bridge to the south leading towards Roundwell. Many walkers and horse riders currently use Water Lane, this development would significantly increase the traffic on Water Lane and surrounding areas, therefore increasing the risks to pedestrians and horse riders, who have used this road in its current state for many years. Water Lane already has issues with drainage, changing the use of the land and putting a development in this area would increase the risk of further flooding. The proposed development is bordering the Kent Downs National Landscape, an area of outstanding natural beauty, the visual impact of any development would cause harm to the landscape. The potential site has several important Oak trees which have tree preservation orders, there is a risk of damage / destruction of these trees should any development be granted.