Rochford Day Centre packed for Hawkwell green belt meeting

Hawkwell Parish Council’s monthly meeting saw dozens of residents fill Rochford Day Centre on Monday night, with the higher-than-usual turnout attributed to the strength of feeling around proposals for 350 homes off Mount Bovers Lane.

Submitted by developer Taylor Wimpey, the plans have sparked significant concern from residents over the destruction of treasured green belt land.

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Julie Gooding, Non-Aligned Rochford Council councillor for Hawkwell West, attended Monday’s meeting and has played a key role in the campaign against the plans.

“The room was packed,” she said.

“Clearly, ever since the Mount Bovers development has been threatening our green belt, residents want to see action, and they’re attending meetings to ensure that happens.”

Pleased - Julie Gooding has welcomed the increased support from residents(Image: Julie Gooding)

Mrs Gooding has encouraged those who feel passionately about the development of the area’s green belt to put themselves forward.

Treasured - The green belt site is beloved by residents(Image: Oliver Graystone)

“This is about protecting our villages from unsustainable development while making sure the right homes, infrastructure and green spaces are secured for the future.

“It’s encouraging to see so many residents already stepping forward, showing the strength of community spirit we have here in Hawkwell.”

The councillor and campaigner said that most of the residents she has spoken to have been motivated by Taylor Wimpey’s plans for the Mount Bovers site, but that their passion extends to all loss of green belt across the district.

Infrastructure - A new SEN school and community building are included in the proposals(Image: Taylor Wimpey)

A Taylor Wimpey spokesperson said: “We are committed to working with all relevant stakeholders and in close collaboration with local officers and members to address any concerns that arise in relation to our proposed development in Hawkwell.”

“Along with a range of new homes to address local housing need, 50% of which will be affordable housing, our outline proposals also include approximately 11 hectares of publicly-accessible green space (43% of the site), opening up land that is currently private, for all local residents to enjoy. This will comprise woodland areas with wildlife habitats, and designated play spaces.

”“Should our application be approved, we will enter into a Section 106 agreement with Rochford District Council which will allow us to make financial contributions towards mitigating the impact of the development on existing infrastructure.”