Local Plan 2011-2031 Proposed Submission Draft

I am writing to express my bewilderment at the plan to build 660 dwellings on land West of Cockenhoe and East of Copthorne

I fully understand that very few householders would want such a dwelling on the doorstep and the need to offset the NIMBY mentality with the need for more housing. That is not the reason for this letter.

In short, I question though whether anyone in a decision making position has actually visited this area. It is so totally unsuitable by the nature of its road structure and general support amenities as to be completely incomprehensible why this decision is even being considered.

I live on Stony Lane and invariably face delays travelling in either direction due to the narrowness of the roads and lack of area for passing. You can sometimes park - or wedge on a bank - waiting for a dozen or 15 cars to come from the opposite direction, only to find half a dozen vehicles lodged behind yourself. At peak times can take 25 minutes to travel the two miles to the Hitching-Luton road.

Other amenities such as phone lines and internet are absolutely inadequate. I live within sight of Luton Airport but the phones and internet service belongs in the slums of Delhi. There are grossly inadequate school and medical facilities in the area.

Absolute madness and I would hope my Member of Parliament will be asking searching questions as to how this preposterous idea has progressed this far.