Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople Development Plan Document

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As a resident of XXXX, I would like to write expressing my concerns at the above proposed development. Water Lane, as you must already be aware, is a very narrow country lane with high banks on either side near the bottom of the lane, and high hedgerows further up. The south side of the North Downs is an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with many walkers, including pilgrims, cyclists and those on horseback using the lane. There is very little room for normal sized cars to pass people walking the lane, who need to step off the lane onto the verge. Cyclists and those on horseback have to find a passing place. The lane is often flooded, running with water like a river when it rains, and becomes very rutted with ice during cold spells. There is already marked erosion to the lane surfaces and edges and having further heavy vehicles using the lane would cause further damage to the lane and verges. Further heavy traffic would make it much more dangerous for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, as well as local residents in their vehicles. We must also remember the tragic accident a couple of years ago on the parallel Thurnham lane, when a car skidded on ice killing 2 people and a dog walking the lane. Drainage and sewage pollution are further concerns. As mentioned already the lane frequently floods under the motorway bridge, (where vehicles have been stranded), and at the bottom of the lane during rains. Thank you for consulting with residents and I would urge you to walk the lane yourselves to see the issues raised above.