Additional housing numbers for Guildford are unacceptable says Doughty

11.54.52am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 22nd Jul 2008

Commenting on the Government's proposal to increase Guildford's target for new build houses by a further 2000 above the draft South East Plan (for 2006 - 2026) Sue Doughty said, "The Government is asking Guildford to sacrifice the green belt to the North East of Guildford between Burpham and Clandon to take 2000 more houses. Meanwhile the rest of Guildford still has to cram in another 322 houses per year. Yet we all know that the North and West of Guildford are pretty well full up already.

"Guildford is clinging by its finger nails to the open spaces which we have, and we are desperate to preserve the character of our town and villages. The government should have been looking first to see how to take the building pressure away from the South East, not planning to invade our countryside and green spaces to cram in more housing."

The new plan, recently published, changes the annual target for Guildford from 322 houses to 422 with the overall number of houses needed going up by 2000 to 8440.

"One thing they have got right is to set a target of 40% affordable housing. But this should be affordable housing which is acceptable to individuals and to families, and a move away from the rabbit hutch mentality where small houses are good enough for other people no matter how cramped," said Sue.

Sue is concerned about the threat to Guildford's green belt which is contained in the proposals. She said, "Our beautiful countryside must be preserved for future generations who will value the open spaces and the natural diversity."

A public consultation on the proposed changes to the South East Plan has been launched and will remain open until 24 October 2008. Sue said, "Views are welcomed and I urge you to respond to the government's plans. This is your chance to make your voice heard, before it's too late."

Note:

All the consultation and other documents can be viewed and downloaded from the Government Office for the South East's website - www.gose. gov.uk. Further information for those wishing to comment is available from the Regional Strategy Team at Government Office for the South East on 01483 882532 or toni.wootton@gose.gsi.gov.uk. The Government Office website provides an online form which can be used to comment on the Proposed Changes. Alternatively, a response form can be downloaded from the website, or requested from the Government Office, and can then be returned by email or post.