There has been wide support for the petition which was presented to Council officers with the following letter
Petition calling for a Master Plan to help protect the villages of Blythe Ward against over development
A masterplan to support the villages of Blythe ward must put community needs at the heart of future development. With government housing targets placing growing pressure on our rural area, it is essential that new homes are only delivered alongside the right infrastructure. First and foremost, investment in better roads and transport links is vital. Many routes are already congested, so improvements must ensure safer, quicker travel while preserving the character of our countryside.
Equally important is access to essential services. A thriving community needs local shops, doctors’ surgeries, schools, and childcare provision within easy reach, reducing the need for long car journeys. Protecting and expanding green spaces should also form a central part of the plan. Parks, play areas, and walking routes not only enhance health and wellbeing but also safeguard wildlife and the unique rural setting that defines Blythe ward.
We, the residents of Blythe ward, call for a proper masterplan to support our villages before any further large-scale development is considered. Our community is already under pressure from government housing targets, and without the right infrastructure, our villages cannot cope.
A strong masterplan must deliver better roads and safer transport links to tackle congestion, along with local shops and services so residents can access everyday needs without long car journeys. Doctors’ surgeries, schools, and childcare must be provided to meet the needs of families now and in the future. Protecting and enhancing our green spaces is also vital, giving residents places to walk, play, and relax while safeguarding wildlife and preserving the rural character that makes Blythe ward special.
We urge decision-makers to put infrastructure first and stop piecemeal development that damages our countryside and overwhelms our services. With a clear, joined-up plan, growth can be managed responsibly, protecting the Green Belt and keeping our villages sustainable and vibrant for generations to come.
A big thank you to all who have supported the petition. To date 720 signatures have been received
