Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople Development Plan Document

Disagree

I am writing to formally object to the proposed Gypsy and Traveller site at Bearsted/Thurnham, as currently under consideration by Maidstone Borough Council. My objection is based on the following material planning considerations: **1. Inadequate and Unsafe Access** The proposed site is served by local roads that are narrow, rural in character, and already subject to congestion, particularly at peak times. These roads are not suitable for the increased volume and type of traffic associated with a permanent Gypsy and Traveller site, including larger vehicles and service traffic. The lack of safe and sensible access raises significant highway safety concerns for pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders, and other road users, as well as for existing residents of Bearsted and Thurnham. The application does not demonstrate how these access constraints can be adequately mitigated. **2. Harm to Local Ecology and Landscape Character** The Bearsted/Thurnham area is recognised for its sensitive rural setting, ecological value, and proximity to areas of environmental importance. The proposed development would result in the loss of green space, increased disturbance to wildlife, and adverse impacts arising from noise, lighting, and general activity. These impacts would undermine local biodiversity and the character of the countryside. Insufficient evidence has been provided to demonstrate that ecological harm can be avoided or satisfactorily mitigated, contrary to both local and national planning policies aimed at protecting the natural environment. **3. Increased Pressure on Local Infrastructure and Services** Local infrastructure in the Bearsted and Thurnham area, including road networks, drainage, utilities, healthcare provision, and schools, is already under strain. The introduction of a new Gypsy and Traveller site would place additional pressure on these services without clear evidence that sufficient capacity exists or that appropriate improvements would be delivered alongside the development. The application fails to demonstrate how this additional demand would be sustainably accommodated. **Conclusion** Taken together, the inadequate access arrangements, the unacceptable impact on local ecology and countryside character, and the additional pressure on already stretched infrastructure render this proposal unsustainable. For these reasons, I respectfully request that Maidstone Borough Council refuse planning permission for the proposed site at Bearsted/Thurnham.