I have received a number of representations regarding the planning proposal for 350 new homes at Heath place and I am writing to advise how I am able to support you in making representations regarding the proposal. As Conservatives in Thurrock we are wholly opposed to housing development on our precious greenbelt.
I should say at the outset that planning matters such as this are for the council and as a Member of Parliament I have no role in their determination. It is the job of your elected councillors to make representations at the planning committee. Conservative Councillor for Orsett and local resident Sue Little will be able to give you support.
As I am sure you will be aware Thurrock Council, like all other local authorities, has a duty to identify sites for housing development in order to meet demand. Unfortunately the Labour council has failed to approve a strategy for housing provision. This means that applications for housing development may go through against the interest of local residents because Labour has failed to identify and approve sites which would be more acceptable elsewhere in the borough. This is because developers are able to argue that the council is not making know where it wants housing to be built and this is putting our greenbelt at risk. It is time the council started telling the developers where the housing should go so that the developers stop telling the council where it wants to build them!
However, as the application is on a greenbelt site it will, if approved by the council, have to be referred to the Secretary of State for approval. At this stage I will be able to make representations on your behalf.
Clearly the potential impact of such a large development on local services and infrastructure will be significant. In order that I can best represent you, I would be grateful if you could visit my survey here where you can register the reasons for your objections to this development and give me your feedback on what more we can do to support your community.
I look forward to hearing from you.