Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople Development Plan Document

Disagree

I am writing to formally register my objection to the above-mentioned planning application. I am a local resident and keep my horse at the neighbouring property to The Lodge, (Bridge Farm). I have several points that I wish to raise: 1. Drainage, Flood Risk, and Soil Composition. The application site sits on a heavy clay base, which has naturally poor infiltration rates. This leads to significant surface water runoff rather than absorption. Impact on Water Lane: This runoff directly contributes to the frequent flooding of Water Lane. The existing natural drainage is already at capacity; any increase in impermeable surfaces (such as hardstanding for caravans and utility blocks) will exacerbate the "run-off" effect, increasing the frequency and depth of flooding on a public highway. Policy Conflict: This violates national policies requiring developments to not increase flood risk elsewhere. 2. Highway Safety and Constraints. Water Lane is a narrow, rural lane characterised by a lack of formal passing places and uneven surface. Impasse and Hazard: The lane regularly becomes impassable due to flooding. During winter months, this standing water freezes, creating hazardous "black ice" conditions. Vulnerable Road Users: The lane is a vital route for pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders. The introduction of heavy vehicles (trailers and towing vehicles) onto a road that cannot physically accommodate two-way traffic poses a severe risk to these vulnerable users. The road has poor sight lines and is unsuitable for heavy amounts of traffic. It is already dangerous with the speeds that some vehicles do on this lane. Structural Suitability: The specific access to the land is narrow, winding, and unmade (unbound surface). It is physically unsuitable for the turning circles and weight of trailers and touring caravans, which would likely lead to vehicles becoming stuck or mounting verges, causing environmental damage. 3. Utility Capacity: Water Supply and Sewerage. The current infrastructure is fundamentally inadequate to support additional residential pitches. Water Pressure: The existing two properties already suffer from critically low flow rates and pressure. The system is currently at its limit; when one property utilises the supply, the other experiences a significant drop in service, as I have experienced personally while taking care of my horse. Adding further units will result in a total failure of the local water network's ability to provide a wholesome supply to existing residents. Non-Mains Drainage: I understand that the site is not connected to a mains sewer. Given the clay composition of the soil mentioned above, soakaways and septic tanks are likely to fail or cause contamination, as the ground cannot absorb the effluent. This poses a significant public health and environmental risk. 4. Sustainability and Infrastructure The site is in a remote location with poor access to public transport, schools, and medical facilities. This encourages over-reliance on private vehicles, contradicting sustainability goals. The proposal represents an encroachment into the open countryside, which would lead to the loss of natural habitat and detrimental "urban sprawl." There are many forms of wildlife including an owl population which would be put at risk. Lastly, the potential site has several important Oak trees which have tree preservation orders. For the reasons stated above, I believe this application should be re-considered. I kindly ask that I am updated with decisions on this matter.