Object

Representation ID: 1433

Received: 08/07/2008

The possible allocation of a greenfield site at Breadsell Lane to accommodate 1000 new homes raises concern. The site is adjacent to Marline Valley SSSI & on the boundary of the High Weald AONB.
Full consideration should be given when assessing the site suitablity to the impacts of these highly valued designated sites taking into consideration other potentially damaging plans or projects. (In this case, this should include the proposals for the Hastings to Bexhill link road, the enviro-enterprise corridor along Queensway & the proposal for development at Wilting.
Paragraph 8 of PPS9 is clear, planning permission should not normally be granted on land within or outside of an SSSI if it is likely to have an adverse effect (either alone or in combination with other developments)
Natural england is highly concerned about the nature & location of this option & we would be minded to object to any future application to develop this area. Any application for housing has the potential to adversely effect the SSSI -
*Hydrological impact - impacts of the quality & quantity of water feeding into gill streams within the woodland. These support nationally important bryophyte assemblages within the SSSI.
*increased visitor disturbance
*Fragmentation of the SSSI - severing biodiversity links to the wider environment, isolating genetic reserves of flora & fauna.