Over development of new housing is putting an increasing strain on our utilities and services in ways that aren't always apparent. Our schools are full to capacity, the doctor's surgery is struggling to cope and a lack of parking at the East end of the village is causing disruption around the shops and causing customers to shop elewhere. In addition to this, our drains and service pipes are running at capacity. Developers are currently building a huge soakaway in the fields behind Star Lane to take away the rainwater from the roads on the new developments.
A recent planning application for 9 flats (1 and 2 bedrooms) with only 9 parking spaces is a good example of over development. If the planning application is approved the owners of the flats would undoubtably have more than one car each, and no provision has been made for visitors. This means that cars will be spilling out onto the high street, affecting all of the businesses around the butcher's. If their customers cannot park there, it will affect their businesses.
As a village we should be looking after our local shops and services. Once they have gone they will never return.
As a parish councillor I would want to be involved in the Health Centre Patient Group Committee in helping them to find ways to improve their phone systems, appointments and waiting lists.
