Stephen Metcalfe, local MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, reiterated his opposition to the proposed development of the land at Little Chalvedon Hall Farm, Bowers Gifford at a packed public meeting last Thursday evening.
The proposals, which would see the Greenbelt land at Bowers Gifford developed for housing by Nottinghamshire Council’s Pension Fund, has been a great source of contention among local residents. The meeting gave local people the chance to voice their concerns with Stephen Metcalfe MP who has joined with the newly formed Bowers Gifford and North Benfleet Residents Association to spearhead a campaign against the development.
Mr Metcalfe commented: “It was extremely encouraging to see so many people at the meeting. It is so important that local residents have their voices heard and meetings such as this provide a forum in which this can happen.”
“I understand that additional housing is needed in Basildon but I do not believe that these proposals are the answer. These proposals fly in the face of local wishes, they are against the Council’s Greenbelt policy and they will do nothing to enhance the local area. I will continue to do all I can to ensure that my constituents are heard and that their views are taken into consideration by the Council.”
Mr Metcalfe added: “I urge local residents once again to get in touch with either me or the Council about this issue. We must garner as much opposition as possible to the developments and this can only happen if residents make their opinions known. I hope that if we work together, we can reach an outcome that is beneficial to local residents and the community as a whole.”
