From: JENNIE BENNETT
Sent: 18 February 2011 13:37
To: Planning LDF
Subject: Submission of Objection
NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT PROPOSED FOR PARK FARM, THORNBURY
FOR THE ATTENTION OF THE INDEPENDENT INSPECTOR
I have already submitted at the 6th August consultation deadline my 4 page objection to how I felt this consultation has been inadequately done and my objections to the Park Farm area being chosen and justification used for housing and location choice.I would like to refer you to my previous objection submitted, as following the consultation I still feel the same about this whole issue as I did then (in August and prior).
In my opinion, the reasons for not choosing the Park Farm site are still the same as before South Gloucestershire Council revised their Core Strategy following approximately 700-800 objections. The council has not given any further adequate evidence to substantiate its statements regarding the school shortfalls, town vibrancy and sustainability of this site in relation to distance from the town. I have read that the provision of an appropriate transport link to the town is now being proposed to ensure integration of the community and support for the town centre, but previously it was statedit only takes 10 minutes to walk to the town centre from the Park Farm site. I know that this is completely false because I live in Manor Walk, the other side of the Medieval Fishponds woods (nearer side to the town) and it takes me at least20 minutes to walk to the town at a fast pace. Therefore, this statement was completely false and should not have been allowed tobe taken as part of justification for this site choice.
I would confirm again that these open fields on the Park Farm site in question are used very frequently by many people; I myself am in them twice daily with my dog. They are the only available community space for this part of Thornbury, and appreciatedby so many and recognised as such a value to Thornbury with nearby Castle, views from various paths over the site of the Church and Castle steeples and flag, as well as the far off views of the hills across in Wales. Whilst walking from the top of the pathwaysdownwards you also take in the views of the Ancient Woodlands at the bottom, which is clearly visible from all parts of the site. This is all apart from walkingadjacent to the stream and the whole site attracts an array of wildlife,of which I have recorded many - (See previous submission). And not to mention the Medieval Fishponds as well, which is protected byits naturaland non commercial surrounds -thisarea is a nature reserve and the different seasons bring the different species into the area. Once again, I cannot even contemplate what on earth is goingon in the minds of people making the decision to build here - it's just too valuable to everyone who uses and appreciates it.
My other big concerns are theflooding risk and lack of infrastructure. I have been in these fields when they have been flooded! I have spoken to people who have been flooded in Oldbury as a result and the Cattery off Butt Lane. Also why are we choosing a site which does not have anyroad infrastructure, surely we must betrying to save the countryside, not concreting over more if there are alternatives with infrastructure already in place. The traffic issues on Butt Lane and Park Road are alreadysubstantial by way of volume and dangers.
I will be horrified if these plans go ahead andit will be avery sad time for Thornbury and its' people and a loss to future generations.
Yours faithfully,
Mrs J D Bennett