Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople Development Plan Document

Disagree

I am writing to formally object to the proposed allocation of site C45-008 (Water Lane, Bearsted) for use as a Gypsy and Traveller site under the current Maidstone Borough Council public consultation. 1. Impact on Highway Safety and Traffic Flow Water Lane is a narrow rural road with limited passing points and already experiences congestion, particularly at school pickup/drop-off times and during peak commuting periods. The visibility at junctions along the lane is poor, and the road infrastructure is not suitable for increased vehicle movements. Additional traffic would significantly increase safety risks for pedestrians, cyclists, and existing residents. 2. Unsuitability of the Location The proposed site sits on land that forms part of the rural setting of Bearsted. It is not well served by safe pedestrian routes, street lighting, or public transport links. As such, the location does not meet the requirements for sustainable development as outlined in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). 3. Environmental and Landscape Impact The area has a distinct rural character that contributes to the setting of Bearsted and Thurnham. Development on this site would negatively affect the landscape, local biodiversity, and the transition between the built environment and open countryside. Any development here risks undermining the conservation and character of the surrounding area. 4. Pressure on Local Services and Infrastructure Bearsted’s local schools, healthcare services, and community facilities already operate at or near capacity. This site would place further pressure on these services, particularly given the limited ability for expansion within the village. 5. Flooding and Drainage Concerns Parts of Water Lane and surrounding land are known to experience surface-water drainage issues during periods of heavy rainfall. The proposed development risks exacerbating these problems unless major infrastructure works are undertaken—something not described within the proposal. 6. Inconsistency with Local Planning Policies The proposal appears to conflict with several Maidstone Borough Council planning policies, including those relating to: • The preservation of rural character • Sustainable development locations • Proper access via safe and suitable highways Conclusion For the reasons above, I request that Maidstone Borough Council reject the allocation of site C45-008. Bearsted is a closely knit community with a strong rural identity, and the proposed development is inappropriate for this location in terms of access, sustainability, landscape impact, and infrastructure capacity.