Fundraising appeal launched by campaigners to support fight against 120-home development in Royston
The meeting was held at the Coombes Community Centre in Royston. Picture: Royston Says No to Gladman - Credit: Archant
The campaign against a speculative development of a 120-homes in Royston has stepped up another level – as the action group fighting against the plans launched a funding appeal to support their fight.
The Gladman proposed development site in Royston from the southern end looking north towards Echo Hill. Picture: David Hatton - Credit: Archant
More than 70 members of the community attended the second Royston Says No to Gladman meeting at Coombes Community Centre on Wednesday last week – which saw the official appeal for funds and residents’ time go live.
Many members of the audience spoke of their concerns about the nature of the proposed development near Therfield Heath.
Problems with the access route to the homes – across Briary Lane – and the “likely increase to the number of vehicles undertaking an illegal right turn at the bottom of Sun Hill” were also raised.
The audience also spoke about the use of bridleways and the impact on local wildlife and landscape – as the site is near the heath’s site of special scientific interest.
The proposed site is opposite the heath, south of Echo Hill – an area that has had strong objections to possible development.
In February, a public inquiry to decide whether Royston heathland near Sun Hill and Briary Lane could be deregistered and built upon. That decision is due in the next few weeks.
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The deadline for public objections for the 120-home development is Thursday, May 31.
This has been extended following complaints around the original timing around Easter, and the scale of the proposal being deserving of extensive consideration.
The appeal is for funding some legal and other professional costs prior to the objections deadline and the group urge anyone who may be able to help with time or finances to get in touch.
Alf Vaisey, campaign group chair, said: “We are urging the community to consider making objections against this speculative and unwanted development.
“Your voice counts, so please register to know how to object, keep up to date with the campaign and let us know if you are able to help in any way.”
Go to roystonsaysnotogladman.co.uk or call Clare on 07715 118540 if you can help.
The Crow has previously contacted developer Gladman regarding the campaign against the proposals and was told they would not comment.
