Keen not to let planning applications for unsustainable housing slip through the net during the Covid-19 pandemic, Island MP Bob Seely has offered his objections to a proposed new greenfield development– this time in Merstone.
The MP says the planned development – consisting of three new residential units on greenfield land adjacent to Rose Barn in Chapel Lane - is unnecessary and does not reflect local need.
Bob said: “I am keen to ensure that our housing is built in the right places and reflects the needs of Islanders. I am concerned that this application exemplifies a trend of unsustainable greenfield development that does not reflect local demand.
“I cannot see how this type of housing in this location will benefit the community and I know there are strong feelings from residents in the area about this.
“We are in danger of developing greenfield sites which are car dependent and service poor – when we should instead be focusing on protecting our landscape and quality of life by utilising existing development opportunities.
“We should be increasing density in our larger towns, where residents are supported by better services, developing existing brownfield sites, and encouraging renovation.”
Bob said he believed the plans were not reflective of the local housing needs survey 2014 -2019 which identified a need for two owner-occupied, two private rented, six affordable rented, and eleven affordable owned houses in the parish.
He said he would continue his campaign to see the Island’s housing target lowered by the Government which would see nearly 10,000 houses built across the Island in the next 15 years under the emerging Island Plan.
Bob invited residents to sign his survey and petition against the housing targets here which has already been signed by nearly 7,000 Islanders.