At a Glance
- Southend Council recently refused a major planning application for Bournes Green.
- The fight to protect the Green Belt continues as the developer can appeal the decision.
- Local residents are encouraged to understand the proposals and raise their voices against development.
- Concerns include increased traffic, stretched infrastructure, and permanent loss of Green Belt land.
By Glen Ward, Secretary of Save Southend Green Belt
Previously, I wrote as a concerned citizen about our Green Belt in Oracle. This time I write as Secretary of the newly formed Save Southend Green Belt group. A great deal has happened recently.
Most significantly, Southend Council’s Planning Committee refused Thorpe Estates’ application to develop Bournes Green. This was an important victory, helped enormously by the many objections submitted by residents and the staunch support of councillors opposing the development.
Residents’ Voices Must Be Heard!
While this is excellent news, one thing became clear when I delivered leaflets advertising our recent Public Meeting: many people believe the fight is over. It is not.
The developer can appeal the decision, and our group will continue to do everything we can to protect this Green Belt and ensure residents’ concerns are heard.
Understanding What’s at Stake
The effects of large-scale development would be felt across the wider Southend area, from Shoebury in the east to Thundersley in the west.
Our Public Meeting on 17 September demonstrated the strength of local concern. The hall was packed, with standing-room only before we began. Committee members explained where the campaign currently stands, the potential impact of development and, importantly, what residents can do. Councillors opposing building on the Green Belt also attended and spoke about their work on the issue. All political parties were invited.
The overwhelming majority of people I speak to oppose development on our Green Belt. Yet there remains considerable misunderstanding about what is proposed and the problems such development could create. Our concerns include increased traffic and congestion, pressure on sewage and drainage infrastructure, additional demands on already stretched health and other public services, and the permanent loss of Green Belt land.
Whatever your view, please find out what is being proposed and make your voice heard. Most importantly, spread the word. Tell one other person!