Local Development Framework Consultation

Response to revised DPD Main Modification ref MM 050

In general the Land Allocation DPD has excluded development in small rural communities, but has made an exception in the case of Brigsteer (see paras 2.13, 3.150 and 3.151 of the marked-up DPD) despite the many indicators against this site in the Fact Sheet (eg lack of infrastructure, transport links, employment opportunities, etc).

The revised DPD refers to “degree of community involvement and support” as the reason for making an exception from the usual policy for small hamlets. This is based on a misconception which has been generated by the self appointed Helsington Community Trust who have made no attempt to engage with the community.There is a danger that a small non-elected pressure group will bulldoze their own ideas with SLDC support without a mandate.Indeed, the Parish elections in May 12 presented the electorate with the only opportunity open to them to voice their opinion of the operations of the Helsington Community Land Trust by voting out HCLT members who had been using their majority on the Parish Council to lobby their personal agendas. Subsequently, the new Parish council carried out the wishes of the majority and withdrew their support for the development. Previously the views of the community was clearly demonstrated at the public meeting, but ignored. A request for the Helsington Community Land Trust was also made to consult and provide more transparency to their aims and business plan. Despite promises to the contrary,adequate communications have not been forthcoming, further fueling concerns at the real aims of the Group.

I believe that a well presented transparent plan for affordable housing would be well received by the community but this proposal is unsound and promotes over-development of the village providing a small number of affordable homes financed by a substantial commercial open market housing development which will give no assistance to current local needs.