BASE HEADER

No

ID sylw: 106346

Derbyniwyd: 05/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Abigail Cockayne

First and foremost, I am deeply concerned about the environmental consequences of this development. The proposed site is located in an area of Green Belt land and farmland, which is vital for biodiversity and local wildlife. This development would result in the permanent loss of important habitats, including the ancient woodland of Rowington Coppice, which is home to various species, and disruption to essential wildlife corridors, particularly along the canal and railway. The increase in traffic, noise, and light pollution would further degrade the natural environment, affecting species such as skylarks, which rely on these spaces for survival.
Additionally, the service frequency from Lapworth station is currently inadequate, and there is limited capacity to improve it. Significant investment would be needed to upgrade the tracks, rolling stock, signalling, platforms, and passenger facilities, as well as provide step-free access. With access to the station limited to country lanes and no regular bus services available, the development would only exacerbate the existing transport challenges.
The proposed development also fails to account for the necessary infrastructure to support a significant population increase. The car park at Lapworth station is already too small, and there is no room for expansion. The minimum threshold for a new settlement is 6,000 dwellings, which would require the development of new schools, healthcare facilities, and employment opportunities. However, the current proposal falls below this threshold, raising concerns about the strain it would place on local services, including Lapworth Surgery, which is already flagged red for GP-to-patient ratio, and Lapworth School, which may struggle to accommodate additional students.
In addition to the environmental and infrastructure concerns, the development would cause disruption to conservation areas, including Canal Conservation Areas and listed buildings such as Kingswood Manor House. The impact on local roads and junctions would also be significant, requiring improvements to roads like B4439 Old Warwick Road and Wharf Lane, and the construction of new bridges over the canals. This would result in years of roadworks, increased traffic on smaller roads, and further strain on already stretched local services.
The environmental damage caused by the development cannot be ignored. The proposal would contribute to the further urbanization of a vital Green Belt area, undermining its value in protecting the natural landscape and wildlife. The additional traffic and pollution would further compromise the quality of life for existing residents and the local environment.
In conclusion, I strongly urge the council to reconsider this application in light of the serious concerns regarding the environmental impact, the lack of adequate infrastructure, and the strain on local services. I believe that any future housing developments should prioritise sustainability, the preservation of Green Belt land, and appropriate provisions for infrastructure and services.