BASE HEADER

No

ID sylw: 106008

Derbyniwyd: 03/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Aaron Murdoch

This scale of development threatens to overwhelm our small village, increasing the population from approximately 1,800 to potentially 10,000 people.

One of the most pressing concerns is the environmental impact. The planned construction will result in the destruction of vital green spaces, leading to the loss of trees and hedgerows that support local wildlife. Badgers, bats (which rely on these areas for roosting), deer, hares, insects, and reptiles will all be displaced, with some species potentially facing a severe decline in population. Additionally, the removal of trees will contribute to increased CO2 levels, worsening air quality in an area already at risk of pollution from increased traffic.

The risk of flooding is another critical issue. The A3400 already experiences significant flooding, and replacing permeable fields with concrete and tarmac will only exacerbate the problem. Without proper drainage solutions in place, local homes, roads, and infrastructure will be at heightened risk of water damage and disruption.

Beyond the environmental and flooding risks, the village lacks the necessary infrastructure to support such a drastic population increase. Blythe Valley was developed with no provision for a school, doctors’ surgery, or pharmacy, problems that will only be amplified with further large-scale development. Increased traffic, noise pollution, and strain on already stretched services will severely impact the quality of life for both current and future residents.

Hockley Heath is a small, close-knit village, and these developments threaten to irreversibly change its character. While we recognise the need for housing, this level of expansion is excessive and unsustainable. I urge you to reconsider the scale of these proposals and ensure that any future developments prioritise environmental preservation, flood mitigation, and the protection of local wildlife.