Fylde MP objects to controversial 128-homes development planned for Wesham
“I have serious concerns about the suitability of this site for a development of this scale”
Fylde MP Andrew Snowden has formally objected to controversial plans for 128 new homes in on land in Wesham.
The proposed development for new housing on Towns Hill off Mowbreck Lane, has been submitted by Northern Trust Land Ltd.
Mr Snowden says it has generated significant concern among local residents, with fears over increased traffic, pressure on local infrastructure and the loss of countryside.
One local resident has said: “To lose beautiful Towns Hill to housing is the equivalent of Lytham losing its Green - that would not be allowed to happen and neither can this.”
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The Fylde MP has now submitted a formal objection and is encouraging residents to make their voices heard through the planning process.
"Having studied the application, I have serious concerns about the suitability of this site for a development of this scale,” said Mr Snowden.
“I share residents' concerns about the ability of Mowbreck Lane to accommodate additional traffic from another large housing development.
“I also have significant reservations about the proposed emergency access via Eskdale Drive.
"More broadly, many local people are concerned about the continuing overdevelopment of our area.
“Our countryside has already faced significant development pressures, and Fylde has taken more than its fair share of new housing."
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Mr Snowden said he remains concerned about Government plans to increase housing targets across rural areas such as Fylde.
He added: "I believe it is fundamentally wrong that the Government is forcing councils such as Fylde to increase their housing targets while reducing them in major urban centres like Liverpool and London, where infrastructure and services are often better placed to support growth.
"As a Conservative with both a big and small C, I believe we have a responsibility to protect our countryside, farmland, rivers, woodlands and natural landscapes for future generations.
“Fylde and Wyre are defined by their rural villages and small towns, and that character is something worth preserving."
Mr Snowden is encouraging residents to attend a public meeting organised by Medlar with Wesham Town Council at Wesham Community Centre on Church Road tonight (June 16), starting at 7pm.
He is also urging local people to submit their comments to Fylde Council before the consultation deadline of July 3.