Further Proposed Modifications to the North Hertfordshire Local Plan 2011- 2031

I am writing to express my concern about the recent planning application for 58 houses on a green field site at the top of Gray’s Lane, west Hitchin.
Development of the proposed site will impact on the quality of the green belt in the area by substantially increasing the housing density at the edge of the town outside the current developed boundary. The proposal will mean that if approved, the buffer between Hitchin and Luton, is further reduced.
The proposed site and its environs is currently home to a wide variety of wildlife. The variety of species identified by the Save Hitchin Greenbelt group has already been submitted to the council and the areas importance to local wildlife was recognised and resulted in the upholding of tree preservation orders on the trees and hedging bordering the site in question.
The proposed site forms part of a popular walking rout for the local community. The route is well used for recreational, pleasure and exercise and provides accessible access to the countryside for a wide range of people currently living in Hitchin. Research tells us that access to green space is important for people’s physical and mental well-being. The proposed development will have the effect of urbanising the rout and making it less attractive and accessible to local people.
Whilst I recognise that the local local plan currently under development indicates a need for further housing development in the Hitchin area, the preservation of the green belt must be prioritised for the well-being of all. Additionally experience tells me that development of this site is unlikely to meet the current local housing need but will instead lead to further population growth and drive the need for greater expansion in the future.
I urge you to refuse this application and preserve Hitchin’s current boundaries and Green belt.