BASE HEADER

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ID sylw: 106421

Derbyniwyd: 06/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Robert Symonds

I am writing to formally object to the proposed development at Hockley Heath (SG24) on the following grounds:
1. Flooding and Drainage Issues – The village already suffers from surface water drainage issues, and the Stratford Road frequently floods during heavy rainfall. Additional development would only exacerbate these problems, increasing the risk of flooding.
2. Green Belt Protection – The earmarked land is within the Green Belt, which should only be developed in exceptional circumstances. There is no justification for allowing large-scale development on this protected land.
3. Contradiction to Local Plan – The proposal conflicts with Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council’s local plan, which designates Hockley Heath for only small-scale development. This large development is entirely inappropriate for the area.
4. Traffic Congestion and Safety Risks – The A34 is already heavily congested, particularly when issues arise on the M40/M42. Additional housing would increase traffic levels and accident risks for both drivers and pedestrians.
5. Environmental and Biodiversity Impact – The proposed development would result in the destruction of valuable green space, harming local wildlife and reducing biodiversity. The loss of open land would also have a negative impact on the wellbeing of current residents.
6. Loss of Village Character – Hockley Heath has a distinctive rural identity. Large-scale development would irreversibly alter its character, undermining the qualities that make it a desirable place to live.
7. Strain on Infrastructure and Services – The village does not have the necessary infrastructure to support a development of this size. Local schools, healthcare services, and transport networks are already under pressure and would struggle to accommodate additional demand.
8. Unfair Burden on Solihull Residents – Although the development falls within South Warwickshire, the additional demand for schooling, healthcare, transport, and refuse collection would fall on Solihull, which has already opposed this development. This is unfair and could lead to disputes between councils in the future.
9. Loss of Green Spaces for Dog Walking and Increased Dog Waste – The removal of green spaces would significantly reduce areas for dog walking, forcing more people to exercise their dogs on pavements and roads. This would inevitably lead to an increase in dog waste in public areas, impacting the cleanliness and hygiene of the village. With more residents and dogs, but fewer appropriate areas for them, the problem would only worsen over time.
Given the above reasons, I strongly urge the council to reject this proposal. I trust that my concerns, along with those of other residents, will be taken into serious consideration.