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New Local Plan: Spatial Options Document 2021

Representation ID: 41937

Received: 31/08/2021

Respondent: Jane Johnson

Representation Summary:

I have been a resident in Hullbridge since 2009. During this time the addition of 500 houses in Hullbridge alongside the large housing estate being built just outside on Rawreth Lane has resulted in significant strain on the local road infrastructure. I commute to Chelmsford and this can often take over an hour (up to 2 when watery Lane is closed). Despite the existing houses there is repeated issues with the roads and often residents are trapped in the village. The potential for more houses in this area will need consideration to improve the roads. We have received additional houses which have already put strain on our GP surgery and small village school which will not be able to accommodate an increase in residents in the area.

The spatial options could lead to 20 sites in Hullbridge with over 4000 houses. I am particularly concerned about the extension to the new houses at the end of Grasmere Avenue. This area is liable to flooding and would destroy a vineyard which is creating business for the community. Access would also be down roads which are unmade and therefore not suitable for heavy machinery.

I have concerns with the impact on the impact on natural habits and destruction of wildlife. Hullbridge is a village with greenbelt which has already been built on. I am an avid walker/runner and the new proposed houses will mean the loss of footpaths.

I am unsure how the houses fit with preserving our rural costal village outlook because Hullbridge will effectively become a town but without the resources to support this. There is no youth centre in the village and there is a lack of amenities, this will worsen and likely lead to increased anti-social behaviour.

The plan provides inaccurate information regarding public transport. For example the bus service does not run 4-7 times per hour.

Looking at the local plan I would recommend focusing the houses in one area rather than destroying villages. The area towards the a130 near the back of wickford seems to he the most sensible option. It is close to main roads and the existing town.

Full text:

New local plan - potential impact on Hullbridge
I have been a resident in Hullbridge since 2009. During this time the addition of 500 houses in Hullbridge alongside the large housing estate being built just outside on Rawreth Lane has resulted in significant strain on the local road infrastructure. I commute to Chelmsford and this can often take over an hour (up to 2 when watery Lane is closed). Despite the existing houses there is repeated issues with the roads and often residents are trapped in the village. The potential for more houses in this area will need consideration to improve the roads. We have received additional houses which have already put strain on our GP surgery and small village school which will not be able to accommodate an increase in residents in the area.

The spatial options could lead to 20 sites in Hullbridge with over 4000 houses. I am particularly concerned about the extension to the new houses at the end of Grasmere Avenue. This area is liable to flooding and would destroy a vineyard which is creating business for the community. Access would also be down roads which are unmade and therefore not suitable for heavy machinery.

I have concerns with the impact on the impact on natural habits and destruction of wildlife. Hullbridge is a village with greenbelt which has already been built on. I am an avid walker/runner and the new proposed houses will mean the loss of footpaths.

I am unsure how the houses fit with preserving our rural costal village outlook because Hullbridge will effectively become a town but without the resources to support this. There is no youth centre in the village and there is a lack of amenities, this will worsen and likely lead to increased anti-social behaviour.

The plan provides inaccurate information regarding public transport. For example the bus service does not run 4-7 times per hour.

Looking at the local plan I would recommend focusing the houses in one area rather than destroying villages. The area towards the a130 near the back of wickford seems to he the most sensible option. It is close to main roads and the existing town.