Object

Preferred Options for Sites

Representation ID: 64393

Received: 01/05/2014

Respondent: Mr Michael Harris

Representation Summary:

The Salford GTAA report ignores impact of the transit site at nearby Southam which has been agreed since the completion of the GTAA.

Lack of co-operation with neighbouring councils.

Full text:

I would like to express my objections to the proposed sites GT02 and GT04.

My main concerns are as follows:-

1) The Salford GTAA report appears to ignore the impact of the planned transit site at nearby Southam which has been agreed since the completion of the GTAA.
2) According to government planning policy framework, adjacent district councils are required to collaborate but warwick DC and Stratford DC do not seem to be collaborating at any length, save for a reported 10 minute un-minuted meeting.
3) Both GT02 and GT04 sites do not meet national planning framework guidelines recommending 10 minute pavement walks to shops and amenities, they are around 45 minute walks and on dangerously fast roads.
4) Both sites do not meet national planning framework guidelines recommendations for availability of good infrastructure (roads,pavements,broadband,street lighting). Considerable investment would be required to rectify this and difficult for warwick DC to meet within its annual struggle to remain within budget.
5) GT04 is in an area prone to flooding with Harbury lane and surrounding fields often under water. In accordance with planning and building regulations, GT04 would be unable to use soakaway or run-off based drainage systems as the soil is clay based so connection to mains sewerage would be needed and this is not currently available in Harbury lane.
6) Regarding local services, the nearest GP surgery to both sites is over 3 miles away and is already stretched to capacity. The nearest primary and junior school is also at capacity and already experiences issues with lack of vehicle parking resulting in residents near the school being unable to exit their driveways as they are blocked in. this would only be exacerbated by additional vehicles from the GT02 and GT04 sites. If buses are required, where will the bus stops be? It would be dangerous for children at both sites to be waiting for buses at the side of the Fosse way or Harbury lane.
7) The cost to create 5 to 10 permanent pitches at GT04 ranges between £325k to £650k, using government's figures of £65k per pitch. There is no evidence that Gypsies and travellers would be willing to pay these sums and Warwick DC have not suggested an alternative means of raising the revenue required.
8) Development of The sites will damage wildlife habitat at a time when many species are declining in numbers. GT04 is in an area of good quality farmland utilised for livestock and arable farming.