Object

Local Plan Review: Preferred Approach 2016-2035

Representation ID: 2050

Received: 07/02/2019

Respondent: Mr Michael Bennett

Representation Summary:

Objects on grounds that Southbourne already has insufficient infrastructure and there are no definitive plans on how this deficit can be addressed, even before considering how new housing can be accommodated. Particular concerns raised about adequacy of highway network, sewer/drainage system and capacity of doctors surgery. Queries whether the proposed school is in addition to existing or a replacement.
Also concerned about potential for merging of settlements due to growth pressures.

Full text:

The basic infrastructure in Southbourne is stretched to its limits with its present population. I understand the need for new housing but definitive plans should already be in place to improve the ongoing problems particularly concerning roads and traffic. This appears to be a build the houses first and deal with the consequences when we get round to it scenario. Leaving the village to the North can be done via country lanes, severely potholed, through the narrow and often blocked streets of Westbourne or through Marlpit Lane, on which the severely damaged road surface is at present having an adverse effect on the condition of private vehicles. The A259 to the South is accessible over consistently congested railway gates. At many times of the day, with the on street parking, this area is gridlocked. With the proposed increase in commercial premises this can only result in more traffic and larger vehicles. Access to schools is poor and the plan proposes to provide a two form entry primary school which the village already has. Is this in addition to or instead of the existing school? Other services are struggling to cope, for example, it can already take over two weeks to get an appointment at the local doctors. Flooding is always a problem and recent housing developments have put greater pressure on an already overworked sewage and drainage system. Tree roots are causing a problem on Stein Road. The villages along the A259 are merging into continual housing both East to Chichester and West to Emsworth and Havant. The required infrastructure improvements should be planned and agreed before the housing.

Traffic flow, another way in and out of village, Railway bridge? Another doctors surgery. Improved access to schools. Road repairs essential. Many are narrowing