BASE HEADER

No

ID sylw: 105839

Derbyniwyd: 04/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Elaine Bird

Re: Objection to Proposed Development at Site SG24, Hockley Heath

I am writing to formally object to the proposed development at site SG24, Hockley Heath, as outlined in the South Warwickshire Local Plan. I am a local Hockley Heath resident, having lived in the village for over 15 years.
Having reviewed the various consultation documents and technical details, it is clear that there are other sites and settlements that perform MUCH better than those selected at SG24 and they have not been reviewed in the correct manner nor in fullness.

Some of my concerns are listed below (not exhaustive);

1. Significant flooding and drainage risks - Hockley Heath currently experiences severe surface water flooding, particularly along the main routes which will be required to serve SG24; School Road, Spring Lane, Cut Throat Lane and A3400 Stratford Road. The existing drainage infrastructure is insufficient to support additional development. The SWLP has not updated flood risk assessments to reflect the current challenges, has not provided a clear drainage mitigation strategy (and some particularly for the SG24 developments, are on waterlogged land), and has not considered the cumulative impact of adding impermeable surfaces to already high-risk flood zones.

2.The proximity of SG24 to local heritage sites ( canal conservation area, listed buildings etc) could potentially harm the setting and surroundings of these culturally significant areas. The development could lead to a loss of character and historical value, which is irreplaceable.

3. The current infrastructure and the future Solihull planning proposals in Hockley Heath (which is a major impact on our village as it is- to public services /transport links etc ) will not support the increased population density that further new homes would bring. I am concerned about the adequacy of transport links, a railway that can not accommodate any more traffic , lack of public transport , single track roads and the lack of pavement in some areas, constraints on local primary school and secondary school capacity and excess travel needs getting to any other primary and secondary schools within the Warwickshire catchment will add to more congestion of the roads. The access to GPs, dentists, hospitals, local amenities, and public services to accommodate such growth without significant investment and planning, and the area is already beyond national guidance for travel times to hospitals and A&E services is a great concern added by the fact that you have a very similar site less than 3 miles down the road at Blythe Valley (with no obvious signs of any these points having been considered). M40 J16 was deliberately limited to only being able to exit southbound and enter northbound to stop the A3400 becoming a 'rat run') etc.

4. Each individual site that makes up SG24 requires inappropriate development and threatens the integrity of the Green Belt, which serves as a vital buffer against urban sprawl, The Solihull Plan was very clear that Hockley Heath is only suitable for small scale development - SG24 is the opposite to this and should not be permitted to proceed in its current large-scale quantum, it must not be considered in isolation away from the Solihull Plan and must have a Solihull Council engagement and agreement. The loss of green spaces would not only affect the local ecosystem but also diminish the quality of life for current residents who rely on these areas.


In conclusion, I urge the planning committee to reconsider the proposed development at SG24, Hockley Heath, due to the significant environmental, cultural, and infrastructural concerns outlined above. I believe that alternative sites with less impact should be explored to meet housing needs without compromising the unique character and sustainability of our community.
Thank you for considering my objections.