David Reeves

Over the past week I have been deluged with emails by concerned residents. There is a clear consensus of opinion; that residents have been poorly informed of the plans, and that to date there has been a real lack of consultation.

Stage one of a four stage consultation process ends in June:

Stage one - a three month preliminary consultation
Stage two - a further more detailed consultation over the summer
Stage three - the final short listing later this year
Stage four - the submission of a planning application.

I am deeply concerned by any proposed housing development, particularly where it is out of proportion to existing villages, facilities and infrastructure. During stage two I will be campaigning heavily to ensure that the consultation is far reaching and that the views of residents and small business owners are heard. If they are not, I will work with action groups to launch a legal challenge to the consultation process, or a judicial review of the final short listing.

Now is our opportunity to shape the proposals into intelligent plans with respect for both the countryside and existing development. To do this however we must make our voices heard.

I am interested to know whether you have been informed of the plans, and how, and whether you feel that your views have been properly listened to and heard.

David