MM4 - deletion of proposed allocation at Harrow Lane (LRA2)

Support

Representation ID: 9637

Received: 10/03/2015

I would like to commend the Inspector, Richard E Hollox on his MM4 to delete the Harrow Playing fields as an area for development.

It is obvious that this area is still used by the present community for sports and social activity and it's retention as a green open space for all to enjoy is imperative.

I do hope this main modification is not overturned as an online petition of several hundred local signatories demonstrates this area is needed by the local community and it's name says it all -Harrow Playing Fields!

Support

Representation ID: 9638

Received: 23/03/2015

This whole area has already had massive housing development over the last 30 years (Little Ridge Estate etc.), and the Harrow Lane Playing Fields is one of the last remnants of what used to be an area with much open space. There was a case for development 30 years ago, but I contend that enough is enough and that this area should now be left alone, and the playing fields, in particular, should be preserved for the benefit of future generations. I think these considerations far outweigh any others-such as a convenient way for planners to "box-tick" housing targets.

Support

Representation ID: 9652

Received: 23/03/2015

The site is a valuable resource for the local community and should not be subjected to review further down the line. It is the only large open space in the local area with no alternative open areas to walk dogs and for recreation. Housing on this site will increase carbon footprint, affect birdlife and the traffic on the Ridge. There is also a risk of flooding. The allocation is also against the Council's published Parks and Open Spaces Strategy, Sport and Physical Activity and principally against targets set in Sustainable Community's Strategy 2009-26.

Support

Representation ID: 9707

Received: 20/03/2015

The Inspector is correct in stating that this area of open land will be and is required to be left as the future requirement for more recreation facilities will be needed as the town's static population grows. This area is also home to badgers and the meadow is part of their foraging habitat. Likewise native reptiles reside in the hedge lines where the local birds nest.

Support

Representation ID: 9715

Received: 20/03/2015

Sport England is pleased to note the proposed MM4 and requests that Policy LRA2 is deleted from the Plan. Sport England considers the allocation of Harrow Lane Playing field to be contrary to Paragraph 73 of the NPPF. Its primary concern is the lack of robust assessment such as a Playing Pitch Strategy. It is unclear how the allocation was arrived at and how it came to be included in the absence of a robust evidence base.

Object

Representation ID: 11149

Received: 27/03/2015

Objection