Subject: Objection to Proposed Gypsy & Traveller Site at Tower Lodge Farm, Score Hill, Northowram
To: spatial.planning@calderdale.gov.uk
Dear Spatial Planning Team,
I am writing to formally object to the proposal to designate land at Tower Lodge Farm, Score Hill, Northowram, as a Gypsy and Traveller site. While I acknowledge the necessity of providing suitable accommodations for the Gypsy and Traveller communities, I believe this particular site is unsuitable for several compelling reasons:
- Green Belt Preservation: The proposed site lies within designated green belt land, which serves to prevent urban sprawl and maintain the character of rural communities. Approving development here would set a concerning precedent, undermining the integrity of green belt protections.
- Highway Safety Concerns: Score Hill is characterized by narrow roads with limited visibility, especially near the “blind summit.” The introduction of additional traffic, including larger vehicles associated with such sites, could exacerbate existing safety issues for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians.
- Strain on Local Services: Northowram’s local infrastructure, including schools and healthcare facilities, is already operating at capacity. An increase in population without corresponding enhancements to services could negatively impact the quality and accessibility of essential amenities for all residents.
- Environmental and Flood Risks: The proximity of the site to Landemere Syke, an area prone to flooding, raises concerns about the suitability of the land for development. Similar proposals have been rejected elsewhere due to flood risks, such as the Lakenheath site in Suffolk, which was refused partly because of high flood risk areas.
- Disproportionate Allocation: Of the 22 pitches proposed across Calderdale, 12 are allocated to this single site in Northowram. This concentration is disproportionate and places an undue burden on our community compared to other areas.
- Wildlife and Biodiversity Impact: The development could disrupt local ecosystems and wildlife habitats. It’s essential to conduct thorough ecological assessments to understand and mitigate potential impacts on biodiversity.
- Private Ownership and Management Concerns: The site is privately owned and not managed by the council. This raises questions about oversight, maintenance, and the provision of essential services, which could lead to issues affecting both site residents and the wider community.
- Potential Impact on Property Values: The introduction of a large Gypsy and Traveller site in close proximity to residential areas may lead to concerns among potential homebuyers, potentially affecting local property values. While comprehensive studies are limited, anecdotal reports suggest that such developments can influence buyer perceptions and market dynamics.
- Concerns Regarding Funding Transparency: There are public reports indicating that individuals previously convicted of serious financial crimes have been involved in land acquisitions in the region. While specific details about the ownership and funding of the proposed site at Tower Lodge Farm are not publicly disclosed, these reports raise general concerns about the importance of transparency in land transactions. Ensuring that developments are backed by lawfully obtained funds is crucial for maintaining public trust and the integrity of planning processes.
Given these considerations, I urge the council to seek alternative sites that do not compromise protected lands and are better suited to accommodate the needs of the Gypsy and Traveller communities without adversely affecting existing residents and the environment.
Thank you for considering my objections.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Contact Information]