Local Plan 2011-2031 Proposed Submission Draft

I wish to register my objections to proposed development of new housing in and around Codicote as part of the above plan for the following reasons;

Does not comply with planning policy
All of the proposed developments are on Greenbelt land and will have a detrimental effect on the well being of the current and future residents of the village. The council has a responsibility to protect greenbelt land on behalf of its residents.

Will have an impact on an area, such as an increase in traffic
As a cycling commuter using roads leading out of the village I am acutely aware of the detrimental effect which increased traffic has on important roads such as St.Albans Rd. This road forms part of the national cycling network developed by SUSTRANS and attracts additionally a great number of recreational cyclist both during the week and on weekends.
In recent years the road has deteriorated due to increased traffic, in particular the use by heavy quarry vehicles. The road is not designed to take heavy traffic, being in many places only suitable for one vehicle to pass by at a time. The side of the roads has been destroyed creating hazardous holes and ditches which are not visible when covered with standing water. Regular maintenance of the type needed to repair these hazards is only possible during dryer summer months. The rate of deterioration means that for long periods over the winter the road has potential death spots where a cycling accident due to poor road/road edge maintenance could lead to serious injury or loss of life.