Yesterday, I spoke to ITV News about the Highsted Park development.
I recognise the need for housing, but this development - of over 8,000 new homes - is another thing altogether.
It’ll put more pressure on already stressed roads and services, tarmac over precious agricultural land, and change this rural area forever.
The size of the development simply does not make sense for the location. With no train station nearby, new residents will be totally car-dependent. Any though there's the promise of new infrastructure there's no guarantee.
Developments like this should take place in already-urban areas where they have the infrastructure to cope. Not isolated rural areas on greenfield and agricultural land.
I’ve called on the Planning Inspectorate and the Deputy Prime Minister to rethink the development, and will continue to be a voice for my constituents to make sure your voices are heard at the highest level.
