29-5-12
Mike Keenan
Save Engine Common Action Group Eip Statement.
Representing over 250 local people who have signed an online petition to prevent the development at Engine Common
My main concern regarding the proposed development at Engine Common is how hugely damaging it would be to the Parish of Iron Acton.
This totally unsuitable property development would stand out as nothing more than an eyesore in the centre of a beautiful, rural Parish would have no sympathy or regard for the existing people, properties or wildlife.
The feel and character of Engine Common would be lost forever, the rural charm, the vast and varied selection of wildlife with its wonderful sights and sounds.
The close knit local community has a discernable feel of unity and comradery, friendship born from familiarity and regular contact, the true essence of rural life.
A genuinely therapeutic and naturally engaging landscape, where the pace is slow and complete strangers will stop and take time converse, absorbing all the benefits the country side can offer and then return home refreshed and invigorated,all would be lost to buildings, traffic and noise.
The recreational aspect would cease and country lanes where people presently walk, ride and cycle would be rat runs for car owners and commuters.
A huge housing estate simply squeezed in with no synergy or connection to its local surroundings, no compassion for design and its only aim to generate as much profit as possible would be an inexcusable, ill-conceived blemish that would strip Iron Acton of its character, charm and appeal.
Also it would extend the Yate boundaries into Iron Acton blending them into one. Both locations benefit from their individualism and that would be lost.
The green barriers that helped prevent housing spread and sprawl would be lost to the very cause they were there for and building up to a green belt can only threaten its existence in later years, so the damage is huge, present and has further potential.
The existing local infrastructure simply couldn't support the additional sea of people that would literally flood through every aspect of daily living. Queues and inconvenience would escalate into frustration and dissatisfaction for all.
The amount of car based commuting would expand and further clog already busy roads, with noise and pollution further contributing to the Parish's demise.
Local residents' existing concerns over drainage and foul water disposal would be heightened adding more misery to this whole unfortunate situation.
With so many other more suitable locations it is foolish beyond comprehension to consider building a housing estate at Engine Common. The Core Strategy has laid out many alternatives, all with an aim to promote minimal commuting and a better quality of life.