Local Plan 2011-2031 Proposed Submission Draft

I wish to object to my local village plan, particularly that part proposing extensive new house building in the village, for the following reasons:

Barkway is a historic rural village and has been designated a conservation area. It has a mix of buildings ranging from ancient hall and manor houses to a small number of sympathetically built modern stock. The character and appearance of the village is special and needs to be protected from drastic change. The building of 140 houses in an estate at one end of the village would significantly damage this.

Another special aspect of Barkway is that it is surrounded by unspoilt and undeveloped countryside (with the exception of the recently built solar farm nearby which I also feel was a mistake). Building a large number of houses on part of this will adversely effect my enjoyment of this countryside as I regularly, along with many other residents, walk the footpaths around the village.

All of the roads leading to Barkway have accidents on them regularly due in part to blind bends and heavy traffic. Adding a large number of houses will increase the number of car journeys, particularly as it is necessary to use a car to access most amenities such as shops, schools and doctors. Increased car journeys will result in an increased accident rate. The reliance on car transport also has an adverse effect on carbon emissions and global warming.

I would be grateful if you would consider these points and my opposition to the plan for a large number of new house builds.