The Planning Consultants Report, commissioned by the residents of Langley Vale, was submitted to Epsom & Ewell Borough Council yesterday and objects in the strongest terms to the proposed development of 110 houses at Langley Bottom Farm.
The report evidences the key seven reasons why the planning application should be rejected:
Green Belt: The development is inappropriate and harmful in principle, contrary to national policy and Policy CS2. It would erode Green Belt openness and encourage sprawl, with no very special circumstances to justify it.
Landscape (AGLV): It would permanently scar a valued landscape (buffer to AONB), violating Policies CS3, CS5 and DM5. Housing on this prominent Green Belt field would have an enormously harmful impact on the attractive open countryside.
Heritage: It harms the setting of the historic Epsom Downs Racecourse and potentially
archaeological assets, contrary to Policies CS5 and DM8.
Ecology: It threatens local biodiversity (badgers, deer, skylarks and more) with inadequate
mitigation, failing Policies CS3 and DM4 which require biodiversity to be conserved and enhanced.
Sustainability and Transport: The site is isolated with poor public transport and footpath links. The car-dependent nature of the development conflicts with Policies CS1, CS16, DM35, DM36, and would exacerbate traffic and carbon emissions
Infrastructure: Local services (schools, healthcare, etc.) are insufficient. Without guaranteed new provision, the scheme cannot meet Policy CS12. Development should not proceed where it would exacerbate a deficiency in infrastructure.
Drainage: In the absence of a detailed and robust drainage plan, the scheme may increase flood risk, contrary to Policies CS6 and DM19. SuDS and sewer upgrades must be certain to prevent harm.
Housing Objectives: While providing new homes (including affordable) is a benefit, it doesn’t outweigh the above harms.
The proposal bypasses the plan-led approach and fails to demonstrate a sympathetic density or mix per Policies DM11 and CS9.
Impact on the Racehorse industry. The proposal would have a serious adverse impact on the operation of the local racehorse training industry.
Approving this application would set an unwelcome precedent for Green Belt erosion across the Borough.
Please support us by writing to Epsom & Ewell Borough Council objecting to the planning application and/or contributing to our fundraising campaign if you are able. We have raised an amazing £4,000 to pay for the planning consultants report but urgently need to continue fundraising to ensure they can represent us at any hearing or appeal if needed. Thank you.