Response from Mr John Robson (Individual)
1. Mr John Robson (Individual) : 8 Jul 2017 14:44:00
Please use the drop down menu to indicate which of the following sites you are commenting on. Please use a separate form for each site.
Silverdale - part of S50
Please use the box below to make your comments.
I am a Silverdale resident, who is not directly affected by the proposal to have part of site S50 included in the development plan as available for housing. Nonetheless, I am concerned for the future of the village and wish to register my objections to the inclusion of S50, for all the reasons expressed by those who have already commented, including:
1. The unnecessary extension to the village boundary, whereas there is sufficient land within the village to meet any demand, if such demand exists;
2. The destruction of the wonderful amenity offered by S50. The views from surrounding land and the views of the village from local viewpoints would be lost forever. It appears that the footpath may be retained, should this land be developed, but walking through a housing estate is not the same as walking through an open field;
3. The affect on local wildlife. Others have commented on roe deer, red legged partridge and marsh harriers. I have seen these myself and cannot imagine what damage development would do to their habitat;
4. Traffic considerations are huge. Others have written about the congestion in the village, and I agree that the St Johns/Emesgate Lane junction is a particular hotspot. Two schools, the parish church and the fire station are all close to this junction. More cars would simply exacerbate an already difficult situation. The lack of job opportunities in Silverdale increase the need for more travel by car, either ouf of the village for work, or to the railway station, where parking is very limited;
5. Sewerage and surface drainage is a real problem, due to the propensity for flooding in the immediate vicinity. This has been mentioned by others, including United Utilities.
I just cannot see S50 is under consideration for inclusion in the development plan. Its use for residential development flies in the face of all local policies and advice. There is no established need for more housing in Silverdale - indeed, the current housing stock more than meets local needs, including the perceived need for affordable housing.
I strongly oppose the inclusion of S50.
