brentwood.gov.uk

Access constraints to roads that are already suffering from over-use, are narrow and dangerous. E.g. regarding site 077 - a particular problem as the road through the village is already very busy and passes by the local school. There are parking issues relating to this with a difficult junction from Redrose Lane. Increase in speeding (already a problem).
Destruction of green belt environment and habitation of wildlife - a feature of village life and noticeably in decline. The piece of land - 077 - south of Redrose Lane supports diverse wildlife - skylarks, hedge-sparrows and owls - all these species are under threat. It also supports the many small mammals, insects and plants which provide their food-source.
Surface water drainage poor - localised flooding. Village lies in a valley where many local streams converge - also source of river Wid.
Lack of infrastructure.
Pressure on village amenities and local school, doctors, etc.
Increase in traffic and pollution, Pollution from rubbish is already a significant problem - also fly-tipping. The amount of rubbish already dumped along the lanes and in ditches is shameful.
Increase in use of cars to access railway stations, towns, schools, etc. Subsequent further damage to very poorly maintained lanes/roads.
Many cycling clubs/running clubs/walkers/horse-riders etc. use the surrounding lanes - this is already a dangerous problem - more cars - more chances of accidents. Few pavements and lighting.
Working on an average of (say) 3 per household - both sites would increase the village population by at least 300, lack of infrastructure to support such an increase. Additional households will subsequently attract more traffic/parking problems.
Destruction of village life - village will increasingly become a 'commuter' settlement.
Broadband coverage is extremely poor.
If the idea is to attract young property buyers, there is nothing to attract them in Blackmore - this would lead to more car-usage to access towns.

General Comment

People tend to come and live in this area for 'village' life and the surrounding countryside. Although it is accepted there is a housing problem, this has to be carefully considered to prevent destruction of the 'village' life people are attracted to. Any large development would seriously detract from the benefits of living here and subsequently drive away those who already live here happily, and have done so for some time, therefore shifting the balance in age-groups, demographics which at present co-exist quite happily.