Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople Development Plan Document

Disagree

I am writing to formally object to the proposed allocation of land on Water Lane in the Bearsted/Thurnham area for a gypsy and travellers’ site. While I recognise the need for appropriate accommodation, I respectfully submit that the proposed location is fundamentally unsuitable for a site of any size due to a range of significant concerns that impact both public safety and the character of the local area. Access and Road Safety Water Lane is a narrow, rural country lane with limited visibility and restricted passing places. The road’s configuration already presents considerable hazards to motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists. A recent fatal accident further up the stretch of road, tragically involving two people and a dog, underscores the inherent dangers associated with its use. In addition, Water Lane is known to be prone to flooding, which further reduces visibility and increases the risk of accidents, especially during adverse weather conditions. The proposal to increase traffic along such a hazardous route would, in my view, significantly compromise the safety of all road users. Traffic and Congestion The existing road network in and around Bearsted and Thurnham already experiences notable congestion, particularly during peak hours and school runs. Water Lane and the surrounding roads are not designed to accommodate a substantial increase in vehicular movements. The introduction of a gypsy and travellers’ site would inevitably lead to more frequent and larger vehicles using these inadequate routes, exacerbating congestion and increasing the risk of further accidents. This would place additional strain on an already overburdened infrastructure. Environmental Impact The proposed site lies within a predominantly rural setting, valued for its scenic character and contribution to the local environment. Development of this nature would erode the rural identity of Bearsted and Thurnham, replacing open countryside with a more urbanised footprint. There is considerable concern regarding the potential loss of established hedgerows and habitats, which provide shelter and corridors for local wildlife. Additionally, the area’s known propensity for flooding raises questions about the adequacy of drainage, and any increase in impermeable surfaces could further exacerbate flood risks both on-site and to neighbouring properties. Residential Impact The tranquillity and amenity of current residents are also at risk. Increased vehicle movements and site activity would result in elevated noise levels that are inconsistent with the area’s rural character. The introduction of artificial lighting necessary for the site would further impact local residents by increasing light pollution, diminishing the quality of life and potentially disturbing nocturnal wildlife. Conclusion In summary, the proposed location for the allocation of land for a gypsy and travellers’ site at The Lodge, Water Lane is unsuitable on the grounds of road safety, existing congestion, environmental sensitivity, and residential amenity. I respectfully urge the planning authority to reconsider this proposal and instead seek more appropriate sites that do not present such substantial risks and negative impacts. Thank you for considering this objection. I would be grateful to receive confirmation of its receipt and to be kept informed of any further developments regarding this application.