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We are writing to object to the recent local plan preferred option number 4, Milverton Gardens, as outlined in your 'preferred options summary' issued in May 2012 for the following three reasons;

1 ) Firstly, the proposals for the development of this greenbelt do not warrant the "Very Special Circumstances" as outlined in the Government's National Planning Policy Framework. In fact the Government's National Planning Policy Framework states that that any harm caused to the Green Belt by the development to be outweighed by the benefit of the development. But we do not see what the benefit will be. According to Warwick District Council the special circumstances are that there is nowhere else for the homes to be built. But that is not true and these are not very special circumstances. The 2009 Core Strategy plan stated that land south of Leamington and not greenbelt was identified and is still available for development. Why is this not being considered? This area of land appears to be perfect for develop, as it already has the infrastructure (roads etc) in place to support its development. It is close to the M40 and there are existing employment opportunities South of Leamington as well as existing out of town shopping facilities and good access to the town centres. Apparently, this land is not deemed attractive to developers as they won't make as much profit in this area, If this is true then please understand that this is NO reason (and certainly not 'very special circumstances') to develop the greenbelt.

2) This area of greenbelt is not just any ordinary greenbelt, it is a valuable amenity, an area of land shared by dog walkers, families enjoying a picnic, ramblers, cyclists, runners, horse riders and it should be recognised as such. I believe that it should be protected for this reason alone, however it is also a valuable as high quality agricultural land.

3) The north of Leamington Spa does not have existing infrastructure and the cost to build it will be huge (£28m). I understand that proposals for expansion of local villages was based on there being the infrastructure to support it, why not the same strategy for the urban fringe. It doesn't make sense. The proposed "Northern Relief Road" is not necessary as will only take new home owners away from the town, this along with proposed "out of town" retail operations will destroy independent retailers in Leamington and will take trade away from the town. If the development is in the South of Leamington, there is an existing road network that could be upgraded at considerably lower cost.
We simply do not think this is a good plan.

Finally, We have been extremely disappointed about the consultation process. We have certainly not been consulted. We have attended two meetings where a man from the council attempted to justify the plans, but we naively thought that he would ask us our views. A true consultation process would have enabled local people to have the opportunity to discuss these plans through forums and questionnaires.
Please, please, please think again and do not build on precious greenbelt.