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ID sylw: 106239

Derbyniwyd: 01/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Michael Reading

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed housing development at Hockley Heath (SG24). While I understand the need for housing, this particular development raises significant concerns for our community, which I urge you to consider.
1. Flooding and Drainage Issues: The village already suffers from surface water drainage problems, the Stratford Road frequently floods during heavy rain. Further development would exacerbate this issue, potentially causing significant harm to properties and infrastructure.
2. Green Belt Preservation: The proposed site is located on Green Belt land, which should only be developed in exceptional circumstances. There is no justification for this incursion, and it risks setting a dangerous precedent for future developments.
3. Conflict with Local Plan: Solihull MBC’s local plan clearly states that only small-scale developments are suitable for Hockley Heath. The proposed scale of this development is entirely inconsistent with this policy.
4. Traffic and Safety Concerns: The A34 is already heavily congested, particularly during incidents on the M40/M42. Additional housing would significantly increase traffic on this road, raising the risk of accidents and further straining local infrastructure.
5. Impact on Wildlife and Biodiversity: The development would harm local wildlife habitats and reduce biodiversity. This would include feeding grounds for Red Listed animal species such as Hedgehogs and Bats. The loss of green space would also negatively affect the well-being of current residents, reducing access to natural surroundings.
6. Loss of Village Character: Hockley Heath has a distinctive rural character that this large-scale development would fundamentally alter. The proposal threatens the village’s unique identity and charm.
7. Inadequate Infrastructure: The village lacks the infrastructure to support a development of this size. Existing services, including education, healthcare, and transport, are already under pressure and cannot accommodate the additional population.
8. Unfair Burden on Solihull: While the development is technically within South Warwickshire, the strain on resources such as schooling, healthcare, transport, and refuse collection would fall to Solihull. Solihull has already opposed this proposal, and it is unfair to impose this burden without adequate support or funding.
I hope the council will consider these critical points and reject the proposed development. Our community deserves thoughtful planning that respects both our environment and our residents' quality of life.