Introduction
Comments on the previous options consultation in Spring 2024 are still relevant. These comments will be reviewed and taken into account, together with additional comments received, when the draft plan is being prepared. Below is a short summary of some of the main issues raised in the previous consultation about Hicks Gate.
Issues raised during the 2024 Option Consultation
- Transport and Accessibility Considerations: Proximity to A4 and mass transit potential at Hicks Gate is valued; sustainable travel options like park and ride, cycling, and walking paths are advocated, while concerns over A4 congestion and traffic safety are noted.
- Housing Needs and Development Preferences: The need for affordable housing at Hicks Gate is recognised; preferences are split between higher-density housing or mixed-use development and fears of urban sprawl, greenbelt encroachment, and under-utilisation of brownfield sites.
- Socio-Economic Impacts and Community Infrastructure: Potential for local employment and enhanced community facilities at Hicks Gate is acknowledged; concerns about community character erosion, anti-social behaviour risk, and pressure on services are also raised.
- Strategic Planning and Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to planning policy framework and alignment with local and regional frameworks at Hicks Gate are discussed, with calls for development priorities on brownfield sites and meeting conditions on sustainability and community benefit.
- Environmental Sustainability and Green Infrastructure: Support for carbon-neutral development at Hicks Gate is shown, suggesting renewable energy integration and high building insulation standards; importance is placed on retaining and enhancing green spaces.
- Flood Risk and Environmental Protection: Concerns about flooding risks in areas like Stockwood Lane at Hicks Gate are prominent; emphasis on comprehensive flood mitigation, greenbelt protection, and ecologically considerate development is evident.