BASE HEADER

I have recently graduated from Warwick University and am due to leave Leamington Spa, where I have lived for the last two years, by the end of the month. However, I was hugely concerned to hear about Warwick District Council's proposed development in the Old Milverton and Blackdown. I believe this land has great recreational value for the local community and have been using it for my own purposes of training for a half marathon over the last year. When I first discovered the footpath between Leamington and Old Milverton, I was delighted that this vast 'green lung' between Leamington and Kenilworth remained preserved, especially given the fact that Leamington's boundaries merge with a large number of other communities which have created dense residential areas. I can also state, without any doubt, that Old Milverton and Blackdown is enjoyed by many other fellow walkers, cyclists, runners and dogs, not to mention the agricultural and environmental value of the land.

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) states that the Government attaches great importance to Greenbelts and that the fundamental aim of Greenbelt is to prevent urban sprawl by keeping land permanently open. It would appear that Warwick District Council is neglecting this vital criterion. Furthermore, the NPPF states that Greenbelt boundaries should only be altered in exceptional circumstances. As there are alternative sites (namely in South Leamington), there are no exceptional circumstances which outweigh the harm caused by altering the Greenbelt boundaries in Old Milverton and Blackdown and allowing development on this land.

The proposed 'Northern Relief Road' will increase congestion and reduce the amount of land available for recreation. A maintained park land would in fact detract from, rather than enhance, the value of Old Milverton and Blackdown. Furthermore, this land is vital for Old Milverton to remain independent of Leamington Spa. As yet, it is one of the few communities that has not been absorbed in the greater conurbation but these developments would ensure it is only a matter of time before it too is absorbed by Leamington.

I hope you consider my objection carefully and are persuaded to reconsider your Preferred Options.