brentwood.gov.uk

Comment

Representation ID: 5146

Received: 17/02/2015

Respondent: Mr Colin Foan

In line with my response to Question 2, I challenge the statement that the A127 corridor has greater capacity than the A12 corridor.
 In line with my response to Question 3 above, after the brownfield sites 020 & 021, site 200 (Dunton Garden Suburb) is the least undesirable of the all other sites in the A127 Corridor as development on this site will create the least harm.
 Site 200 has the potential to contribute to the Brentwood Borough Council's need for residential development; and could become a self-sufficient, sustainable development with access to levels of infrastructure funding that would offer the best chance for a positive outcome for existing and new residents of the A127 Corridor.
 Developing site 200 would also enable potential residential development in and around West Horndon village to be limited to the existing industrial estates (sites 020 & 021). Whilst such development would still significantly alter the nature of West Horndon village, if undertaken appropriately, the village could retain its current "small community" feel, with surrounding farmland, open spaces and nature preserved.
 If site 200 is developed an appropriate buffer zone must be incorporated on the western edge of the development up to the A128 to prevent future urban creep, and minimise the impact of development on existing residents.
 Development of the land immediately adjacent to the village (sites 037, 038 & 126) would destroy the current village environment.
 Brentwood Borough Council must use the "duty to cooperate" to negotiate with other authorities to prevent development taking place in Thurrock to the south of West Horndon. Such development would also cause harm similar to that identified for sites 037, 038 and 126.
 The consultation document fails to identify the flood risk issues, including where it exists and how it will be managed. Given the recent history of flooding in the West Horndon area it is essential this is addressed. Sites 037A, B and C, 038A and B, and 126 all act as water buffer stores and are prone to becoming water logged following heavy rain. Any development in these areas would be contrary to paragraph 100 of the National Planning Policy Framework.