Bowmans Cross Campaign
Liberal Democrats from across the district have slammed Hertsmere Borough Council for “dumping” up to 5000 houses on the edge of London Colney for local political reasons.
We believe Labour-controlled Hertsmere has failed to follow clear national guidance, which requires every district council to prioritise the most sustainable sites for new housing: ones that can be connected to local transport infrastructure and population centres.
In Hertsmere, that would mean locating sites for new housing closer to centres like Radlett, Elstree, Potters Bar and Borehamwood. Instead, it has “dumped” the site on the edge of London Colney for the politically motivated reason that there are no Hertsmere residents living here who can object in their ballot boxes.
This is in stark contrast to the new St Albans local plan, which strictly followed the national guidance and did require tough decisions which impacted all parts of the district including London Colney.
To confuse matters Hertsmere Borough Council are conducting two consultations impacting this development, one on their local plan and one on the planning application. Your Liberal Democrat led councils and councillors will focus on the local plan regulation 19 consultation.
So, at this stage we suggest you respond to the Bowmans Cross Outline Planning Application (reference 26/1330/OUTEI). You can see details on the Hertsmere Borough Council website and on the developer's web site at bowmanscross.co.uk.
Please e-mail your comments before Tuesday 17th November to consult.planning@hertsmere.gov.uk quoting reference 26/1330/OUTEI and including your name and address.
It is important you write your own response as form letters or petitions only count as one response. Explain your own concerns in your own words and, where possible, refer to local examples or evidence. Only planning matters can be taken into account.
Issues you may wish to raise include:
- The site is in a location without the necessary infrastructure.
- Cumulative up to date traffic projections including traffic from the Segro freight terminal and other developments are not included
- Proposed improvements to The Bell roundabout and M25 J22 are just not enough
If you have time to consider the wider issues, then London Colney Parish Council have published a comprehensive guide.
This is a fast-moving issue, so please register below to receive updates on the situation.
Sign up for email updates
Sign up to Daisy's Monthly Newsletter
You can keep in touch with what Daisy's campaigning on both here in St Albans and in Parliament by signing up to her newsletter.