Proposed Development of Land lD1a South of Elmsmead In Iden Rye

I am writing further to a recent residents' consultative meeting at which concerns over the proposed development were aired. An alternative proposal
favoured by Iden Parish Council for permitting development on site IDS
(Witterham Road) was rejected on the grounds that (i) it was outside the
strategic planning area and (ii) involved the demolition of an industrial site
being a source of employment.

Arguments against the Elmswood site are:
Limited current access to Elmsmead from Main Street (difficulty for delivery
vehicles, re-cycling trucks and emergency services)
Poor lines of sight for egress
Poor turning space for commercial vehicles
Prolonged duration of construction (in excess of 12 months) access to site of
heavy transport, cranes, concrete mixers, excavators. etc.

Arguments for Alternative Wittersham Road Site:
We urge the Inspector to re-consider the Wittersham Road site for the following reasons:
It is the Parish Council's preferred option.
The owner has indicated a willingness to relocate businesses within the
vicinity of Rye/Rye Harbour thereby retaining local employment The site is 30 metres closer to the village shop/post office.

New properties would benefit from rural outlook over orchards (a feature
which makes Iden virtually unique without in-fill or ribbon development in the
area).

The development would link the village centre with established development
around Reader's Corner.

Other Considerations:
Local services will need to be improved to provide public transport for work
and 16+ schooling not available in the Rye area.