Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople Development Plan Document

Disagree

I am writing to lodge a formal objection to the proposed development of a travellers’ site in Bearsted, as outlined in the recent planning notice. Bearsted is a small rural village with a distinctive character and limited infrastructure. The proposed site raises several serious concerns: Infrastructure and Access Local roads, particularly Water Lane, are narrow and unsuitable for increased traffic from larger vehicles. Additional pressure on water, waste disposal and emergency services would compromise safety and service provision for residents. Environmental and Landscape Impact Bearsted lies within an area of significant natural beauty and heritage. The proposed site would harm the rural landscape, disrupt wildlife habitats and conflict with policies designed to protect the countryside. Community Scale and Sustainability Bearsted’s population and facilities are modest. Introducing a site of this size would disproportionately alter the balance of our village and undermine the principles of sustainable rural development. Policy Compliance The proposal appears inconsistent with the Maidstone Local Plan and national planning guidance, which emphasise protecting rural character and locating developments where infrastructure can support them. Whilst we recognise the need for traveller accommodation, we believe it should be provided in locations with appropriate infrastructure and services, such as near major transport routes and larger settlements, not in a small rural village like Bearsted. For these reasons, I respectfully request that the council refuse this application.