I am concerned about the proposal to build houses on this area of land because of the strain it will put on the roads and the facilities in Hellesdon. I understand that these houses once built will be classed as Horsford but because of the NDR Broadland Northway being between them and Horsford I cannot imagine the residents will use the facilities of their designated parish. The facilities such as doctor's surgery and schools in Hellesdon are already oversubscribed and with the development on the Royal Norwich Golf course just beginning things will not improve.
This development will mean that Hellesdon will lose even more open space. As a parish Hellesdon is sadly lacking in open green space to the extent that the parish council have to class muddy verges along the sides of some streets as green space when putting forward their future plans. Once you have built on green space you can never get it back. The wooded areas on the sides of Reepham road provide a habitat for wildlife and plants that are essential for providing oxygen and drainage.
A few years ago an application to site a burial ground on just one side of the Reepham Road was turned down as it was deemed that the road infrastructure would not be able to cope with the traffic it would generate. A housing estate will generate more traffic which will use the roads more regularly. Since the opening of the NDR Broadland Northway the Reepham road has had increased traffic follow particular at 8am and 5pm rush hour times, when it can take up to 5 minutes before you can safely cross the road by the Doctor's surgery, or join the road from Drayton Wood Road.
At present part of this land is leased to Hellesdon parish council and used as a green space, it is popular with dog walkers and families, enjoying an area where children can play ball games, learn to ride their bikes and exercise in safety. Having this space is so important when we are trying to promote a healthier lifestyle. If this area must be developed every effort should be made to protect this grassy area.
Finally the proximity of Norwich Airport is a concern. I had always believed that this area was needed as an emergency crash area for the airport. Planes certainly seem very low as the come into land across these fields. Aviation fuel pollution is not widely discussed but without a doubt living this close to where planes take off and land must have an impact. Looking at this issue from the point of view of the airport, will building houses this close to the airport prevent the airport itself expanding? If so this is a very short-sighted measure Norwich needs its airport, as the journey to London Stansted, Heathrow and Gatwick can be horrendous and the airport itself brings welcome employment.