Land south of Hill Wootton Road
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 60856
Received: 04/12/2013
Respondent: Joyce and Joe Wright
-This is a small rural hamlet of just over 20 properties and the proposal is a significant increase to the hamlet.
-The road through the village has been a significant concern as it is used as a 'rat run' from the main Kenilworth/Leamington Road to Warwick.
-The speed of the traffic has been dangerous. We know the speed limit will be reduced to 30mph but this will not stop many going too fast and it will end up being a short cut.
-Additional housing will add to this problem.
See attached
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 60970
Received: 16/01/2014
Respondent: Dr David Elsy
-The site specifically proposed for development has already been rejected a number of times for planning permission.
-Traffic and access to the site and the rest of the hamlet are dangerous
-Hill Wootton has poor infrastructure and is not well served by public transport
-The impact on wildlife has not been assessed
-The impact on the environment to the people living in the hamlet will be damaged
-Annex 6 of the consultation document itself says not to develop the proposed plot of land.
-Hill Wootton should not be removed from the Green Belt
I wish to register my objection to the proposed residential site proposed in the consultation for Hill Wootton and the removal of the hamlet from the Green Belt.
SUMMARY
* The site specifically proposed for development has already been rejected a number of times for planning permission.
* Traffic and access to the site and the rest of the hamlet are dangerous
* Hill Wootton is NOT well served by public transport
* The infrastructure in the hamlet is poor
* The impact on wildlife does not appear to have been assessed
* The impact on the environment to the people living in the hamlet will be damaged
* Annex 6 of the consultation document itself says not to develop the proposed plot of land.
* Hill Wootton should NOT be removed from the Green Belt
IN DETAIL
Hill Wootton is a unique hamlet with aspirational housing situated along unlit roads with poor access to main transport routes
1) The site has been rejected by planning officers in 1974, 1986 and on appeal in 1987. There has been no significant change in the area around the site since then, other than increased traffic and access problems described below. In the absence of any positive reasons for planning to be reconsidered, then the notion of building on the already rejected site should be rejected.
2) Traffic and access to the planned site are dangerous. The site is on a dangerous bend the adjacent to my house (Hill Farm). Hill Wootton Road is a busy rat run between Leamington and Warwick. The bend has been the site of numerous accidents since I have been in Hill Wootton (just over two years). This has included a car hitting the telegraph pole, leaving me without telephone and internet access, and cars hitting the hedge. Additionally turning right off Hill Wootton Road into the lane where access is suggested is dangerous. This is on a blind bend and I regularly see near misses (despite the often ignored new 30 mph speed limit). There is a lot more traffic now than in 1987, so this is worse than when the site was originally rejected
The lane where access is suggested is additionally used by large farm machinery, horse boxes, horses and dog walkers. The presence of traffic inhibits access for this farm machinery and is a danger to other users.
3) In contrast to the opinion in the planning document that has been published, there is no public transport within easy reach. I was somewhat surprised that Hill Wootton allegedly has good transport links. This is not true. The nearest bus stops are over 1200 metres away down an unlit lane, with no footpath and crossing the B4115 at a junction where there have been accidents and indeed a death in the past.
4) I would query whether the hamlet has adequate infrastructure to cope with additional housing. The drainage and sewers seem to struggle with the flow produced by the existing residents. Some residents do not even have the luxury of access to a sewer. There is no gas supply, which results in the use of oil for heating by many. This is hardly suitable for low cost housing. The only resources we have in the hamlet is a post box and a notice board.
5) There appears to have been no environmental impact assessment on the loss of the field. This is used by barn owls, foxes and bats for hunting suggesting that this is an important wildlife resource for the area.
6) The loss of the field would also have an impact on the nature of the village and surrounding buildings, both listed and more recent structures. The field acts as an important buffer in the hamlet between the hamlet and the railway, A46 and beyond.
7) Annex 6 of the Site Appraisal Matrix says in essence not to develop this site. The Council themselves are saying it is not suitable, so why continue to consider it?
8) The Plan removes much of the hamlet from the Green Belt. This should not happen. The removal of the hamlet from the green belt will open up much of the hamlet to development, risking destroying the unique character of the hamlet. I am not adverse to a limited number of dwellings being developed in the hamlet, however, these should be in keeping with the character of the hamlet so should be subject by the stricter planning constraints currently imposed on the area.
Thank you in advance for your consideration of this matter.
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 61033
Received: 18/01/2014
Respondent: Mrs Joanna Bignall
As per the attached document.
As per the attached document.
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 61449
Received: 17/01/2014
Respondent: Historic England
The evidence base, fails to establish how Site 1, Hill Wootton contributes to the character, appearance and significance of the Conservation Area; and the effect of the proposed development on those attributes. It's not clear whether the proposals are in accordance with the NPPF policies for the protection and enhancement of the historic environment and Section 66 (1) of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990.
The proposed allocation is directly opposite a Grade II listed building. How does the setting contribute to the listed buildings significance and what is the implication of the development on that significance?
see attached
Support
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 61509
Received: 09/12/2013
Respondent: Mr Peter Holt
-The proposal put forward for the village of Leek Wootton and its adjoining hamlet of Hill Wootton are not unreasonable and therefore, I have no objections thereto subject to whatever development takes places is in keeping with the surrounding area.
see attached
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 61518
Received: 14/01/2014
Respondent: Cllr Alan Moore
-Development will convert a small integrated rural community into an urban joining settlement.
-It disregards the viable farms buildings and businesses that in the case of development would not be able to continue, ownerships apart.
-The site is pasture and never built on. The one-way land access is already difficult to negotiate between parked vehicles. Extra traffic would only make this worse. It is needed for farm traffic daily and business activities, which have to wait to pass oncoming vehicles.
-Development would increase the risk of trespassing.
-It will erode the present rural scene and destroy its future enjoyment.
see attached
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 61529
Received: 17/01/2014
Respondent: Mr John R Rand
-It is totally incongruous to the vicinity and intensively undesirable to the local residents.
-The notion that up to 10 houses could be built in this field as used for sheep grazing and pasture is utterly absurd, putting excessive pressure on local facilities (water drainage and sewage disposal).
-Extensive flooding has occurred on the road/pavements approaching the farms and drastic problems would occur regarding access and traffic increase.
-Agrarian land must not be destroyed since this country has become entirely dependent on food imports for at least 14 weeks of the year.
-It would erode the Green Belt concept further.
see attached
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 61547
Received: 20/01/2014
Respondent: Mr Michael Partridge
-Land has been refused planning consent and lost on appeal. It should therefore remain as protected Green Belt land.
-The settlement of Hill Wootton was historically an agricultural settlement of several farms and farm cottages. That character still exists and should be retained. The retention of this important open field is an integral part of that character.
-There are several other parts of land and buildings that could be converted and developed in the settlement without radically changing its agricultural character.
see attached
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 61627
Received: 20/01/2014
Respondent: Mr Thomas Maisey
-The field has a history of failed planning applications and an appeal refusal, all of which state that the lane it is situated in is adjoining the settlement of Hill Wootton and does not constitute infill.-The land in question has never been and is not regarded infill. It is not a 'gap'; it is within an agricultural area which adjoins the main settlement.
-Access to the field from Leek Wootton involves a right turn across a dangerous blind bend.
-The land satisfies the 5 essential purposes of Green Belt.
-Space for five houses can be found elsewhere within the settlement.
see attached
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 61657
Received: 16/01/2014
Respondent: Mrs Jane Johnstone
-The site involves a blind bend and access to the site is very restricted.
-The bend at the site is extremely dangerous and several near misses have been encountered with oncoming traffic.
-The school in the village is oversubscribed and new children to the village would have to be driven to Kenilworth school.
-There is no public transport in the village. The nearest bus stop is 1200 metres away and is an infrequent service.
-The only amenity in the village is a post box. There is no street lighting, shop etc.
see attached
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 61697
Received: 20/01/2014
Respondent: Mrs Betty Ray
-The building of houses on the proposed site would hinder working on the farm.
-It is adjacent to a very dangerous bend- already several accidents have occurred.
-Hill wootton is a small hamlet, 10 proposed houses would increase the size considerably.
-Kenilworth Road to the hamlet is now very busy due to the one way system, this village is now used as a cut through. The road is narrow with no pavement or lighting.
-The road from Leek Wootton to the School is again not paved; children have to be taxied.
-Other Sites maybe more suitable for infill.
see attached
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 61874
Received: 20/01/2014
Respondent: Mrs Cindy Grove
-Hill Wootton is a small, rural hamlet. There are no facilities such as gas, public transport, street lights and largely without pavements.
-There is a dangerous blind bend at site 1 and an equally difficult access up to the crossroads with the Warwick Road which is dangerous.
-Access to the site leads to farmyards and a livery. Large farm vehicles and horses use it regularly. It is problematic for the farmer when cars park there.
-The Site is surrounded by Green Belt fields which may also be considered for development meaning this small rural hamlet would be lost for ever.
see attached
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 61924
Received: 11/12/2013
Respondent: Mrs Sonia Scrimshire
-Previous planning applications have been rejected based on its unsuitability
-The land's open aspect is important to the character of the village.
-Risk that the hamlet would eventually merge into Leek Wootton.
-Farm machinery is entitled to use the roads.
-The road next to the plot is dangerous with a blind bend and narrow lanes put pedestrian safety at risk.
-Infrastructure to support a development of this nature does not exist.
-Modern houses overlooking Stud Farm and Rose Cottage is not in keeping with the rural setting.
-Consideration has not been made for existing difficulties (i.e. drainage issues).
see attached
Support
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 61946
Received: 12/12/2013
Respondent: Mr Brian Holt
-The site is possible for development although there are concerns about highways matters and loss of amenity of local residents.
See attached
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 61947
Received: 12/12/2013
Respondent: Mr Brian Holt
-Incompatible with the nature and needs of the village
-Rural location not suitable for farm workers on low incomes as amenities not easily accessible
See attached
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 62145
Received: 20/01/2014
Respondent: Hill Wootton - Petition
Number of people: 34
-The field has a history of failed planning applications and does not constitute infill.
-Doubts regarding the suitability for development here are raised in Appendix 6 of the Local Plan.
-An increase of 20-40% housing is in excess of other locations.
-Development will negatively affect the working of the farm, the Equine training facility and livery.
-Access would involve a dangerous blind crossroad and a blind bend.
-Farm buildings in a poor state of repair could be dangerous.
-Existing drainage problems in the area have not been examined.
-There are no street lights, gas or public transport within walking distance.
Hill Wootton Preferred Option for housing development.
Page 50, Warwick District Council Local Plan 2013
OBJECTION
We, the tffidersigned, object to the Green Belt/Green Field preferred option for residential
development in HiLl Wootton on the following grounds;
I. The field in question has a history offailed plarming applications and a rejection at appeal,
all of which state that this field and the lane it is situated on adjoin the hamlet of Hill
Wootton and does not constitute 'infill,. It is not a 'gap'. The opinion ofW.D.C. itself as
stated in Appendix 6 of The Local Plan 2013 is 'The open Character of Hill Wootton
currently makes an important contribution to the openness of the Green Belt. This subparcel
could not easily accommodate a limited infill, without compromising its essential
open character, and the fundamental aim and purpose of the Green Belt'. It is situated in an
agricultm-al area in a lane which leads to a working farm and which adjoins the settlement.
I
2. Any development of this field will seriously compromise the Green Belt and encourage
applications to further encroach upon it which will then be difficult to refuse. Appendix 6
'Long term negative effect on prudent use of Green Belt Land on the edge of the village.'
3. There are no 'special circumstances' which necessitate the use of this piece of Green Belt
land. Serious doubts regarding the suitability of this land for development are raised in
Appendix 6 of The New Local Plan 2013, and echo our own.
4. The Local Plan has identified the potential for 10 houses on a field ofth.is size, scaling down
the number to 5 at the landowner's request. This represents, at worse, a 40% increase on the
cm-rent housing number of25 inhabited houses within the boundary or at best a 20%
increase in this tiny hamlet. This is far in excess of what is being asked of other locations,
excepting Leek Wootton, and will change its nature completely.
5. If the land is adopted and pm-chased by a developer what is to stop 10 houses being built
there? This would be insensitive development of an area which is essentially agricultural
and totally out of keeping with the nature of the hanllet.
6. Importantly, a housing development will negatively affect the working of the farm (whose
farm buildings adjoin it on one side) and the running of the Equine training facility and
livery at the further end of the lane. In fact, the farmer is of the opinion that a development
here could make it impossible to carry on with the effective running of the farm. Heavy farm
machinery, horse boxes and horses constantly use the lane in which the access to the
proposed development is indicated. The lane itself is the only access to the agricultural,
farmed land which runs down to the Avon and additional overspill parked vehicles from a
relatively large development, and general traffic engendered by it will greatly hinder the
fanner's ability to move his vehicles up and down from the fields.
7. Access to a development on the lane involves a dangerous blind crossroads followed by a
right turn across a completely blind bend at the corner of the field in question, over the years
the scene of many accidents where cars coming from the opposite direction end up in the
ditch or against the telegraph pole.
8. Farm buildings in a poor state of repair abutting the land could pose a danger to residents of
any development there.
9. Existing problems with drainage in the area have not been examined. In the corner of the
field on the blind bend opposite the fannhouse are Severn Trent pipes serving at least three
houses opposite.
10. Amenities. There are NONE. There are no street lights, no GAS. Any housing built here
would be dependant on the more expensive forms of heating, oil or electricity. There is no
public transport within reasonable walking distance. A bus stop in Leek Wootton is 1200
metres away (contrary to the 400 metres quoted in App. 6, that is an error, see googlemaps
which gives 1200 metres to the Leek Wootton Bus stop and the same to Kenilworth Road)
and as a consequence Hill Wootton has been identified by W.D.C. as being too far from
public transport to expect children to use it to get to school andfree taxis are provided.
Pensioners applying for bus passes are entitled to taxi vouchers. There are no pavements on
either approach to Hill Wootton, essential drainage ditches prevent them from the Leek
Wootton approach, it is too narrow from the Kenilworth Road, one car width only in places.
Commuters and shoppers in Hill Wootton have to use cars.
11. There is concern about the redrawing of the boundary. Knowledge of the hamlet does not
appear to have been considered. For example, Tower House has been excluded even though
Hilary Farm opposite has been included. The lane, always regarded as the 'agricultural' end
of Hill Wootton has been included.
12. Hill Wootton is essentially rural with a working farm and liveries at either end, and
surrounded on all sides by agricultural land. It is enjoyed by many as a rural retreat in our
already built up area. It is totally inappropriate that it should be 'inset' losing the protective
wash of the Green Belt.
There are more suitable and sensitive opportunities for small scale development in Hill Wootton,
which would not affect the street scene or change the nature of the hamlet, which have not been
explored. A more sensitive alternative would be to invite landowners to offer them so that W.D.C.
can assess them for their viability. There is also potential in the long term for the development of
existing buildings which would be more in keeping with the rural nature of Hill Wootton.
A development of 5 or more houses on the field in question would be entirely unworkable,
inappropriate and out of character.
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 62155
Received: 17/01/2014
Respondent: Mrs Keri Elsy
-Previous planning application has ruled against the site.
-Current Council reports outlined in the Local Plan defend Hill Wootton's open Green Belt.
-The land is for agricultural and leisure use.
-There are road safety issues. The site is on a blind bend. Crossroads under Skew Railway is a known black spot and crossing is difficult.
-The only amenity is a post box. Bus stops are a mile in each direction.
-The field has drainage and water problems which cause road safety issues.
-No gas provision exists so all future development would rely on oil or electricity.
see attached
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 62277
Received: 20/01/2014
Respondent: Mrs. Joy Maisey
-This greenfield is not 'infill'.
-Access would impact agricultural practices as it is a narrow lane leading to the farms.
-Failed planning applications, a rejection at appeal and Appendix 6 Local Plan stated that the open character of Hill Wootton makes an important contribution to the openness of the Green Belt.
- 10 to 5 houses would be insensitive and change the character of the settlement.
-The site is situated on a completely blind bend.
-Existing drainage problems and insufficient electricity provision problems are on-going.
-There are no amenities. School children have free taxis in recognition of absent public transport.
see attached
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 63233
Received: 15/01/2014
Respondent: Leek Wootton & Guy's Cliffe Parish Council
-Typical rural hamlet and should remain so.
-Planning Applications for development of the site has previously been refused (1974 and 1986).
-There are no public facilities and services are limited. No gas supply and there have been a number of interruptions to the electricity supply because of lack of capacity.
-Access roads for both vehicles and pedestrians are poor and indicated access would require a right turn on a blind bend when approached from Leek Wootton.
see attached
Object
Village Housing Options and Settlement Boundaries
Representation ID: 63352
Received: 27/12/2013
Respondent: The Club Company UK Ltd
Agent: Hancock Town Planning
-The site is greenfield and in a highly unsuitable location.
-Hill Wootton has no facilities, public transport and is one miles from Leek Wootton with roads having no footpaths. Any future occupants would be totally car dependent, contrary to the core objective of the NPPF.
See attached