Just been looking at more detailed proposals for housing in my area. Can't deny that some of the housing areas are pretty intrusive, and look like they will lead to queues, either on the roads, in the shops, or for school places. The Whitenap proposal in particular looks huge.
http://www.testvalley.gov.uk/PDF/Plan_PreSub(chapter%2015).pdf
Closer to my home, my heart sank at a proposal for 400 houses north of Hoe Lane, on the western edge of the village. On looking at the more detailed map, I can see why residents are horrified at even more houses being tagged onto the edge of the village, and the strain it is likely to place on the roads, and infrastructure.
There are, however, two bits of potential good news for the local wildlife, or at least, two bits of news that could have been much worse:
1. The Woodland on the edge of the village looks to remain untouched, except for increased access. This woodland has held a Firecrest, and regular Marsh Tits, so good to know there is a chance they will continue to hold decent birdlife. The woodland on the edge of nearby Valley Park seems to have adapted to a housing estate in close proximity. As noted previously, the locals are still getting Tree Pipits, Woodcock and Nightjar within earshot (Although a seperate, completely ridiculous housing proposal has been submitted for Great Covert!)
2. Creation of a woodland park on the edge of the M27.. Assuming this is well designed, then wildlife could benefit from proper management of this woodland which is currently largely birdless coniferous woodland, occasionally torched by youths. I should certainly benefit from being able to explore footpaths as opposed to hacking my way through dense jungle wondering if I am on private land!
Only time will tell! |
