Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople Development Plan Document

Disagree

I am writing to formally object to the proposed allocation of land on Water Lane, Bearsted, for inclusion in the Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople Development Plan Document (DPD). As a local resident with direct oversight of this site, I have taken into account both the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Maidstone Borough Council’s duties under the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act (2004). While acknowledging the Council's responsibility to identify suitable sites for all communities, including those of Gypsies, Travellers, and Travelling Showpeople, I wish to highlight that site selection must carefully consider suitability, safety, environmental impact, sustainability, and the wider implications for local infrastructure and residents. I set out my principal concerns below: 1. Road and Access Requirements Water Lane is a narrow country lane lacking pedestrian pathways or footpaths, which presents significant risks to road users and pedestrians alike. Past incidents in the area have tragically demonstrated these dangers. Increased traffic, particularly from larger vehicles, would further heighten these risks and could adversely affect local wildlife and trees. Site access is limited exclusively to this road, compounding potential hazards. 2. Flooding Risks Water Lane is prone to flooding, raising additional concerns about road safety and the risk of water and sewage issues impacting Bearsted village. According to NPPF paragraph 110, safe and appropriate access for all users must be ensured, without introducing unacceptable highway safety impacts. It appears unlikely that effective mitigation strategies could sufficiently address these matters. 3. Lighting Deficiencies The absence of street lighting on Water Lane increases the inherent risks discussed above. This is also following on from the tragic death of a Bearsted couple on Thurnham lane last year. 4. Impact on Local Infrastructure Bearsted’s population already places pressure on local infrastructure, such as traffic flow, parking, and essential services (shops, healthcare, schools). The village’s roads, particularly during peak hours, frequently experience congestion, and existing parking provision is often insufficient for both residents and visitors. Local shops and healthcare facilities, including GP surgeries, are operating at or near capacity, leading to extended waiting times and reduced accessibility. Schools within Bearsted are similarly stretched, with limited places available and concerns about class sizes rising in recent years. Further expansion as proposed would exacerbate these challenges, potentially overwhelming the current infrastructure and diminishing the rural character and residential quality of the village. Additionally, strain on public transport services and utility networks may result in service interruptions or delays, further impacting everyday life for local residents. The cumulative effect of increased demand risks eroding the sense of community and peaceful environment that Bearsted is valued for. 5. Residential Amenity and Property Value The proposed site would be visible from my property, and I am concerned about the consequent negative effects on residential amenity and on property values. Sites should ideally be considered where infrastructure, amenities, and safe access are more adequately provided, preferably closer to larger urban areas rather than in a rural context. 6. Site Management and Oversight There is insufficient information regarding how occupancy levels will be managed and monitored, and whether contributions such as council tax and waste collection arrangements will be comparable to those for existing residents. 7. Noise and Community Safety Potential noise disturbance has not been fully assessed. Previous experiences indicate difficulties in enforcement by local authorities, risking community safety and tranquillity. 8. Environmental and Wildlife Impact The development poses threats to local flora, fauna, and the valued rural landscape, including views towards the North Downs Area of Natural Beauty, which should be preserved. I respectfully request confirmation of receipt of this letter and that I be kept informed of all subsequent stages of the consultation and DPD examination.