We appreciate the need for increased housing in the area, however, releasing small pockets of green land is not alleviating true housing shortage but is changing the face of our village forever. Removing these small envelopes of green belt does not seem very productive. This site in particular is heavily wooded, would have a considerable cost element per hectare than one of the larger potential development sites which could provide more diverse housing. See our objections below:
Flooding
During heavy rain it is clear to see at the back of our property the field floods and the ditch overflows into our garden and the cul de sac at the end of Marylands Avenue floods encroaching into our drive and that of our opposite neighbour. Without the current woodland to absorb runoff, more serious flooding would occur.
Sewerage
Marylands Ave and Merryfields Road have a history of periodic sewerage overflow, as the system struggles to cope. It has not been updated since it was originally put in in the 1960's and is not maintained by the Council.
Nature
This narrow strip of land runs adjacent to the Nature Reserve, maintained by Hockley Parish Council, and if built on would have a detrimental effect on the current wildlife population which includes bats, woodpeckers etc.
One of our main objections, as we live adjacent to the site in question, is that this land is green belt and is subject to a TPO, ref no 02/00. If major tree clearance were to take place, this could have a serious effect on the stability of our property as was stated in Rochford District Council letter to us dated 23rd January 2001.
When the document is submitted for independent examination?
When the Inspectors Report is published?
When document is adopted?