Planning Inquiry for speculative development at Church Lane, Sarratt

The planning appeal Inquiry for up to 92 additional dwellings in the Green Belt at Church Lane, Sarratt village began today. Unfortunately this is just one of a number of new planning appeals by developers, all across the county.

Last month permission was granted (at appeal) for 20 new dwellings on Church Lane in Sarratt village, Three Rivers District. Now, an Inquiry is being held regarding planning applications 22/0601/OUT and 22/0602/OUT for up to 92 additional dwellings (increased from the 87 originally proposed) at two other sites on Church Lane.

So that’s up to 112 new dwellings in total, which based on ONS data would mean circa 270 more residents and 160 more cars on Church Lane, and circa 40% population increase of Sarratt village.

The two new appeal sites total 15 acres including the land shown above. The sites are in the Green Belt and in the setting of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We objected to the original planning applications, Three Rivers District Council refused permission, and the developer has appealed to the Planning Inspectorate.

We are participating in the Inquiry as an Interested Party.

We are dismayed that the developer has pursued this appeal, and we are strongly opposed to this inappropriate development. Our Interested Party Statement is available for download. We are urging the Planning Inspector to dismiss the appeal.

Download

We also urge local residents to attend the Inquiry so that the Planning Inspector can appreciate the strength of feeling of the local community. And we know that local residents are deeply concerned; this poem was posted on a footpath gate when we visited the sites last year.

A Love Song for Sarratt

The Death of Sarratt

Morning, noon and nights

For endless years

I have loved the fields and woodland sights.

Out with the dogs, over the Green

Into Nature’s places lots have seen.

Now in my mind’s eye I see

Houses and houses where only countryside should be.

It will be our collective fault

If we do not ensure a rapid halt.

Do not let it go.

It will be Sarratt’s sad death throe.

JL  26th February 2022

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Read more about the Inquiry on the Three Rivers District website at https://www.threerivers.gov.uk/services/planning/planning-appeals

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