Unfortunately the Land & Partners appeal to the Secretary Of State did not go in our favour. The Inspector has ruled that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is not required when considering any future planning application on the Land to the North of Long Copse Lane.
The Secretary of State recognises that there are environment sensitivities but feels these could be addressed though the planning application process. The decision in no way means that development is inevitable. The Council has placed a number of constrains on the site that would be difficult for any potential developer to satisfy, see section 8.2 of the Pre-Submission Local Plan. We will be doubling our efforts to resist any development.
The Decision Letter and Written Statement can be viewed by following the links.