brentwood.gov.uk

Although there is an obvious need for additional affordable housing in the Brentwood area, the above site off Alexander Lane is a recreational open green space used by local residents and as such should not be considered for building development.

It is used for football practise and in the better weather as a place for local parents to take their children for an improvised game of cricket, a kick about with a ball or just to run around and let off steam. Residents use it as a place of exercise for themselves and to walk their dogs.

The field is also a haven for wildlife, the mature trees around the boundary support so many species of birds, small mammals and insects. We have often seen the Great Spotted Woodpecker, Green Woodpecker, Song Thrush, Blackbirds, Grey Heron, Fieldfare, Jay, Blue Tits, Long-tailed Tits and at quieter times flocks of seabirds. On a summers evening at dusk we have seen bats flying near the oak trees. I strongly feel it is so important to balance the need for additional housing with the protection of wildlife and our natural environment. None of us want to see the Brentwood area turned into a concrete jungle.

With higher density housing and the resulting increase of traffic and pollution it is so important to keep open green spaces within walking distance of local communities. We need places to go for fresh air and exercise without having to use our cars and add to the dreadful traffic congestion blights Brentwood and Shenfield.

I would also like to know what measures will be put into place to protect and enhance the woodland on the eastern side of site ref 034.