Local Plan 2011-2031 Proposed Submission Draft

I strongly object to the above development for the reasons below:

* Site AS1 fails to meet the requirements for highway safety to protect pedestrians and other road users as defined in both National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and NHDC's own current and emerging planning policy for Highway Safety (Policy T1).
* Site AS1 fails to meet the requirements to protect valued landscapes. The site is within the North Baldock Chalk Uplands Character Area and development is restricted under National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and NHDC's own local planning policy, both current and emerging.
* Site AS1 fails to meet the requirements to protect the historic environment. The site is within the setting of the scheduled ancient monument Arbury Banks and is protected by NPPF and NHDC policy (SP13, para 4.151).
* NHDC has failed to consult on the proposals to extend the settlement boundary in locations other than AS1 (within which there would be a presumption in favour of development; Policy SP2) and has not responded adequately to previous representations.

Ashwell does not have to infrastructure to support further development. The drainage systems are poor and around busy times, eg Xmas there is often a problem with blockages.
The High Street is frequently overwhelmed with parked cars. This is an irritation but is also very dangerous for the children trying to get to and from school and cross the road safely.

The service at the surgery, which also serves Bassingbourn is already poor. Waiting 2 weeks for an appointment and rarely able to see a Dr of choice, more families will add to the pressure on this already stretched service.

The village has recently lost it's Post Office, which was a valuable service.