BASE HEADER

No

ID sylw: 105278

Derbyniwyd: 03/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Natalie Scibisz

Summary: Objection to the Inclusion of sites in Leek Wootton in the Draft South Warwickshire Development Plan

We are writing to object to the inclusion of land at The Warwickshire (REFIDs 2 and 229), land to North and South of Hill Wootton Road (REFID 116), and land near Black Spinney, Warwick Road (REFID 603), all sites in Leek Wootton, within the South Warwickshire Development Plan. The proposed developments would have major negative impacts on the village, its residents, and the surrounding environment. Our objections are on the following grounds:

1. Impact on the Integrity and Character of the Village

Leek Wootton is a distinct and historic village, and the current Local Plan commits to maintaining its separation from other settlements. The proposed developments would severely erode the village’s unique character and identity, merging it with nearby urban areas. This would undermine the commitment to preserving the village’s integrity, as outlined in the existing Local Plan.

2. Green Belt Land

The proposed development would encroach on Green Belt land, which is designated to prevent urban sprawl and protect the countryside. Building on Green Belt land in Leek Wootton would set a dangerous precedent and undermine the purpose of Green Belt policies, which are vital for maintaining the separation between settlements and preserving the rural character of the area.

3. Overdevelopment

Leek Wootton is designated a “growth village”. However, it is already earmarked for substantial growth, particularly with the Cala development at the Police HQ site. Further development would constitute overdevelopment, placing untenable strain on the village’s infrastructure, services, and community cohesion. The village is not equipped to accommodate additional large-scale development without significant detriment to its residents and environment.

4. Infrastructure and Pressures on Services

The village’s infrastructure, including schools, healthcare facilities, and public transport, is already under significant pressure. Additional development would exacerbate these challenges, leading to overcrowding and reduced quality of services for existing residents. The capacity of local infrastructure would have to be significantly enhanced before any further development.

5. Traffic Congestion and Road Safety

The Warwick Road, which runs through Leek Wootton, is already heavily congested and cannot be widened, in part due to the proximity of listed buildings. Increased traffic from new developments would worsen congestion, raise safety concerns, and negatively impact the quality of life for residents. Furthermore, the additional traffic would increase noise and air pollution, detracting from the village’s peaceful character.

6. Damage to Listed Buildings

The vibration and pollution caused by increased traffic poses a serious risk to the structural integrity of listed buildings in the village. These historic structures are irreplaceable assets, and their preservation must be prioritised. The proposed development would place them at unnecessary risk, potentially causing irreversible damage.

7. Ecological Impact and Loss of Wildlife Habitats

The proposed development would result in the loss of valuable wildlife habitats, threatening local biodiversity. Leek Wootton is home to a variety of species that rely on green spaces for survival. The destruction of these habitats would have long-term ecological consequences, undermining efforts to protect and enhance local wildlife.

8. Noise and Air Quality

Increased development would lead to higher levels of noise and air pollution, negatively impacting the health and well-being of residents. The village’s tranquil environment would be compromised, and the quality of life for those living in Leek Wootton would be significantly diminished.

9. Loss of Recreational Amenity

The proposed development would result in the loss of green spaces that are currently used for recreation by residents. These areas provide important opportunities for outdoor activities and contribute to the physical and mental well-being of the community. Their loss would be deeply felt by those who rely on them for leisure and relaxation.

10. Increased Risk of Flooding

The development of the land at The Warwickshire in particular would severely increase surface water runoff, raising the risk of flooding, as experienced following other nearby developments. This is particularly concerning with climate change giving us wetter winters and the escalating challenges of managing flood risk. The potential for water runoff makes this area inappropriate for housing.

Conclusion

We strongly object to the inclusion of sites in Leek Wootton within the South Warwickshire Development Plan. The proposed developments would have severe and far-reaching consequences for the village, its residents, and the surrounding environment. We urge you to reconsider these proposals and prioritise the preservation of Leek Wootton’s character, infrastructure, and natural environment. To this end, we request that the sites listed at the beginning of this letter be removed from the draft plan.