We live in Chapel Lane in Guestling Green and oppose the draft for planning 2020-2040 of 14 houses in Chapel Lane. I fully appreciate that we desperately need more AFFORDABLE housing, but the obvious issue is that Chapel Lane is narrow and incredibly dangerous and especially congested at Primary School drop off times.
14 houses would almost certainly mean 28 cars, and much worse, many more shopping delivery vans.
Anyone tempted to doubt it should walk with their child or dog at the A259 end of the lane at school times to see how unsafe the situation is. I’ve had very near misses with white vans myself just stepping out of my front gate - there are no pavements here, and no space to add them. Many of us at this end of the lane have no choice but to step straight out into the lane to leave the house.

Whilst I appreciate the need for housing development, the proposed option of 34 new houses in Guestling and Guestling Green raises a number of concerns.
1. Inadequate Transport Links
The current transport infrastructure is insufficient to support an increase in population. Both road networks and public transport systems are already under strain. The roads in and around the proposed site are not designed to handle additional traffic, leading to potential congestion and longer travel times for residents. Public transport options are limited and infrequent, which will not adequately support the increased demand that new housing will bring.
2. Environmental Impact
The introduction of additional housing will significantly impact the local environment. Increased traffic will lead to higher emissions, contributing to air pollution. Moreover, the additional lighting will result in increased light pollution, disrupting local wildlife and the natural ambiance of the area.
3. Road Safety Concerns
The main access road to the proposed housing site is a key route to the local school. Increased traffic on this route poses a significant safety risk to children and other pedestrians. The likelihood of accidents will increase, putting our community's most vulnerable members at risk.
4. Lack of Need for Additional Housing
The housing demand is primarily for affordable housing within the town centre, where there is better access to services and infrastructure. These areas are not those in greatest need and do not have the services (such as regular public transport) to support low income families.
5. Insufficient Infrastructure
The existing infrastructure, including schools and GP surgeries, is already overburdened. Adding more residents without expanding these essential services will lead to further strain, resulting in longer waiting times and reduced quality of service for all residents.
6. Impact on Village Character
One of the most valued aspects of our area is its village character. This new development threatens to undermine this and alter the rural landscape that defines our community. The charm and appeal of living in a village will be eroded by this expansion.
7. Parking Issues
Parking is already a significant issue in the area, with current provisions unable to meet demand. The introduction of new housing will exacerbate this problem, leading to unsafe parking practices and increased disputes among residents.
In light of these points, I strongly urge the planning department to reconsider this proposal. The development as it stands will not only disrupt the lives of current residents but also place an unsustainable burden on the area's infrastructure and environment.