BASE HEADER

No

ID sylw: 106140

Derbyniwyd: 25/02/2025

Ymatebydd: Ellie Marks

Please find following my strong objection to the proposed development in Hatton (B1 area) for 8000+ new homes, addressing traffic infrastructure, wildlife, green spaces, hospitals, and suggesting Leamington Spa as an alternative:

Objection to Proposed SWLP Housing Development in Hatton (B1 Area)

I am writing to express my strong objection to the proposed development of 8000+ new homes in Hatton (B1 area). While I understand the need for new housing, I believe this location is fundamentally unsuitable and will have severe negative consequences for the existing community, the environment, and local infrastructure.

The current road network in and around Hatton is already under significant strain. Adding 8000+ homes will lead to unacceptable levels of congestion, increased commute times, and air pollution. The existing infrastructure simply cannot support this level of development without major, disruptive, and likely insufficient upgrades. A good example of this is the junction of Hockley Road with the A4177, where there are already huge queues at peak times. Any new residents in this proposed area would need to utilise this junction to gain access to Warwick, Leamington and beyond. I can't imagine how long the traffic queues would be if this goes ahead.

Effect on Wildlife and Biodiversity: Hatton and its surrounding areas are home to a diverse range of wildlife and valuable habitats. This large-scale development will inevitably lead to habitat loss, fragmentation, and displacement of wildlife. Construction activities will cause noise and light pollution, further disrupting ecosystems. The environmental impact assessment must fully address these concerns and propose concrete mitigation measures, which I believe will be difficult to implement effectively.

Loss of Local Green Walking Spaces: The proposed development threatens the loss of valuable green spaces used by residents for recreation, exercise, and relaxation. These green spaces are vital for both physical and mental well-being. Studies have consistently shown the benefits of access to green spaces for reducing stress, improving mental health, and fostering community cohesion. The destruction of these spaces will negatively impact the quality of life for existing residents.

Effect on Hospitals: Local healthcare services, particularly Warwick hospital, are already struggling to meet current demand. Adding a population equivalent to a large town will place an unbearable strain on these services, leading to longer waiting times, reduced quality of care, and increased pressure on already overworked staff. The proposal fails to adequately address how the increased healthcare needs of the new residents will be met.

Alternative Location: Leamington Spa: A more suitable location for a development of this scale would be Leamington Spa. Leamington Spa possesses a more robust road network capable of handling increased traffic flow. Furthermore, Leamington Spa benefits from a significantly better-connected train station, facilitating sustainable transportation options for residents and reducing reliance on private vehicles.

For the reasons outlined above, I strongly urge the planning authorities to reject this proposal. The negative impacts on traffic infrastructure, wildlife and biodiversity, local green spaces, and hospitals far outweigh any perceived benefits. A more sustainable and responsible approach would be to consider alternative locations like Leamington Spa that are better equipped to accommodate large-scale development.