Local Development Framework Consultation
Response from Mr and Mrs Jason and Sue Rylands (Individual)
1. Mr and Mrs Jason and Sue Rylands (Individual) : 8 Jul 2008 16:18:00
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.
I wish to object to the contents of the South Lakeland District Council’s Local Development Framework document that is out for consultation at present.
As a Kendalian, I am strongly opposed to the prospect of yet further substantial growth in the population of the town. It is clear to me that the road network within the town simply cannot cope with even more traffic and there are insufficient opportunities for traffic numbers to be reduced by additional buses and improved cycling routes.
I accept that some growth has to happen - and that more affordable houses are required but the Council has to show that this has been limited to what the town can sensibly accept. And to use a much used word these days, that growth has to be shown to be sustainable. I know your document claims that your proposals are sustainable but I do not believe you have demonstrated that.
I also object most strongly to the proposal to site more housing adjacent to Briery Meadows between the railway line and Burneside Road. Those fields are an important part of the Council designated Green Gap, which must be preserved. The fields are very wet and flood at times. The extra traffic on Burneside Road would be intolerable and I am concerned about how any houses would be accessed. There was a suggestion that an access could be built through the children’s formal play area at the end of Briarigg. As parents of two young children, my wife and I would find that totally unacceptable. The road safety implications of such an access would be very serious indeed. I always find the existing junction between Briarigg and Burneside Road slightly difficult, as sight of approaching (and fast) traffic seems limited.
Also the housing proposed off Burneside Road would be a long way from any employment sites – either those in the town now or proposed - and most people would have to use their cars to go to work, take children to schools, shop, etc.
I do hope you rethink the growth figures for Kendal. And that you remove the totally unacceptable proposal to site more houses to the North West of the town.