Community Voices Rise in Concern Over Local Development Plans
A recent public meeting brought together residents from Old Basing and Lychpit to express their concerns about upcoming development plans. The gathering took place at the Old Basing Village Hall, where the Old Basing and Lychpit Environment Campaign (OBLEC) organized an event to hear updates on the Local Plan and local government reorganization from key figures in the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.
The meeting was attended by nearly 200 people at 11 am on Saturday, October 18, offering a platform for community members to directly engage with council leaders. Among the attendees was Alan Renwick, a member of OBLEC, who highlighted some of the main issues raised during the discussion.
Key Concerns Raised by Residents
One of the primary concerns discussed was the availability of water and the necessary infrastructure to support new developments. Renwick emphasized that the community is worried about how these projects might impact the local environment and resources.
Another significant issue was the proposed development of Lodge Farm, which has been rebranded as "Land at Whitmarsh Lane" in the draft Local Plan. This site is located next to the River Loddon, raising fears about potential pollution and environmental degradation. Residents are concerned that the expansion of the Land East of Basingstoke area, which could include up to 900 homes, might also affect Lodge Farm, potentially adding 600 more houses to the region.
Government Mandates and Housing Pressures
The council explained that they are under pressure from the government to build 1,150 homes annually, with the possibility of this number increasing. Cllr Andy Konieczko, cabinet member for strategic planning and infrastructure, noted that these mandates have forced the council to reconsider previously rejected sites. The government has set a strict deadline for the submission of the Local Plan by December 2026, with no clear consequences outlined for non-compliance.
Despite efforts to reduce the housing numbers, ministers have refused to make any changes. During the Q&A session, residents expressed gratitude for the councillors' openness but questioned the inclusion of Lodge Farm as a major housing development site.
Environmental and Infrastructure Challenges
Residents also raised concerns about the threat to the River Loddon from sewage discharges linked to the Chineham Sewage Works and surface run-off. Additionally, there were questions about the potential for people to live near an incinerator, as well as the lack of additional healthcare facilities and schools to accommodate the new homes.
Renwick praised the council representatives for their thorough responses to the questions posed. He described Lodge Farm as a "dagger" for the community, highlighting the deep-seated worries about what might happen to the area if development proceeds as planned.
Community Engagement and Future Steps
Cllr Konieczko acknowledged the importance of the meeting, stating that it provided an opportunity to discuss major changes affecting the borough. He emphasized the need for difficult decisions regarding the Local Plan and appreciated the feedback received from the community.
The meeting was seen as a success by OBLEC, with the group expressing gratitude to the two borough councillors for their time and engagement. As the council moves forward with its plans, the community remains vigilant, determined to ensure that their concerns are heard and addressed.
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