Local Development Framework Consultation
Response from Mr Colin Marchment (Individual)
1. Mr Colin Marchment (Individual) : 7 Jul 2008 15:48:00
Please write your comment or explain your reasons for supporting or opposing this part of the Report. You may also wish to refer to the tests of soundess in the glossary of the Preferred Options document before making your comments.
Following on from my submission on behalf of Sandylands Residents Association, I would be grateful if you would consider my individual response. My views are largely consistent with those expressed by the Residents Association collectively. However, there is one area which was not discussed by the Residents Association and therefore has not been mentioned in the collective response, which I would like to bring to your attention.
If new developments of housing and commercial units are to be authorised there are inevitable consequences for the local farming community. This consideration has not been addressed sufficiently in the report. Re-assignment of agricultural land will have an adverse affect on the livelihoods of local farmers, particularly those who farm as tenants with little control over the sale of the land which supports their businesses. I believe there is a need for a survey and assessment of the effects of the proposals for land development on the local agricultural economy. I would expect a full consultation to be instigated by the SLDC with all farmers whose livelihoods are threatened before any purchase of such land for the purpose of re-development is allowed. I would also suggest that adequate compensation be offered, which is set by an independent body agreed by all parties if such development is to take place