[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, Postal Code]
[Date]
The Planning Department
South Ribble Borough Council
Civic Center, West Paddock
Leyland, PR25 1DH
Subject: Objection to Planning Application 07/2024/00102/OUT for Land At North Of Cocker Lane Moss Side Leyland Lancashire
Dear Sirs
I am reaching out to articulate my profound concerns about the proposed development, with a particular emphasis on the critical issues pertaining to access, the detrimental impact on the indigenous wildlife, and the undesirable transformation that Cocker Lane would undergo as a result of this development. I kindly request that you acknowledge receipt of this letter in writing and give due consideration to the points I am about to outline.
Access and Planning Considerations:
Foremost among my concerns is the issue of access. The proposed site has not been earmarked for residential development in the 2015 Local Plan, a plan that has already seen its targets surpassed. More pertinently, the site has been explicitly excluded from the Lancashire County Council's Emerging Local Plan due to insurmountable access challenges. The Consultation document for the Central Lancashire Local Plan (December 2022, Regulation 18 Consultation) highlighted that there is no feasible means to provide safe and direct access from Dunkirk Lane, and Cocker Lane is already operating at its maximum capacity.
The proposal to construct 23 new dwellings would introduce an estimated additional 50 to 60 vehicles to the area, severely exacerbating the current access limitations. Cocker Lane, characterized by its narrowness, poor lighting, and inadequate surfacing, is ill-equipped to handle such an increase in traffic. Furthermore, there are significant physical constraints to widening the road due to the presence of essential utilities and communication lines, which pose substantial engineering and financial challenges. This bottleneck effect is particularly concerning between the junctions of Gillyflower Court & Cocker Lane and the cocker lane side road located by 14b Cocker Lane. and the single entry and exit points to Cocker Lane and Paradise Lane, potentially leading to severe congestion and heightened risk of accidents, especially near Moss Side Elementary School during peak times.
Ecological Impact:
Equally troubling is the potential ecological impact of the development. The area in question is a vital habitat for a variety of species, including but not limited to bats, foxes, hawks, owls, and deer. Contrary to the assertions made in the planning proposal's Ecological Statement, which notably claims an absence of bats, these species are abundant and play crucial roles in the local ecosystem. It is imperative that the planning process fully acknowledges and addresses the ecological value of this land, ensuring the preservation of this diverse wildlife habitat.
Transformation of Cocker Lane's Character:
Lastly, the character of Cocker Lane stands to be irreversibly altered should this development proceed. The construction of a 'mini' estate in place of the verdant field to the north of Cocker Lane would not only obliterate the natural frontages of the residences below Birchwood Close but would also change the essence of Cocker Lane from a quaint and characterful lane into just another urban thoroughfare. This loss of character and community spirit is an outcome we must strive to prevent.
In light of these significant concerns regarding access constraints exacerbated by physical and legal limitations, the overlooked ecological value of the area, and the potential loss of Cocker Lane's unique character, I strongly urge you to reconsider the proposed development. It is essential that we preserve the integrity of our local communities and natural environments for current and future generations.
I look forward to your written acknowledgment of this letter and to the thoughtful consideration of the points raised herein.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]