Lib Dems fight housing plan in Hempsted

The Liberal Democrats are fighting plans to build hundreds of new homes in Hempsted.

Developers have submitted a planning application for the construction of 245 properties at Hill Farm, off Hempsted Lane.

The development falls within a cordon sanitaire - which prohibits housing near to the sewage works.

It is also not part of the City Plan or Joint Core Strategy which lists sites for potential housing development over the next decade.

Dozens of local residents have already submitted objections to the planning application and are being backed by the Liberal Democrats.

Dr Rebecca Trimnell, from Hempsted and Westgate Liberal Democrats, has also submitted an objection to Gloucester City Council's planning department.

"We will fight any attempt to build hundreds of new houses at Hill Farm," she said.

"It is in the cordon sanitaire and the visual impact upon the village of Hempsted would forever be tarnished.

"I am also personally concerned about the impact upon local wildlife, including possible badger setts, the presence of newts and foraging bats.

"There has already been considerable recent development in the Hempsted area. We shouldn't build on every piece of green open space. Enough is enough.

"Hempsted is the last village in Gloucester and we should protect it."

Hempsted is one of 14 conservation areas in Gloucester and the Hill Farm development is near to it.

Local resident Farook Mota, also from Hempsted and Westgate Liberal Democrats, added: "This scheme would have a negative impact on Hempsted and I believe the local area should be protected from over-development.

"The proposal will cause unnecessary additional traffic congestion on Hempsted Lane and with the junction of Secunda Way.

"We are also concerned whether Hempsted Primary School will be able to cope with an increased demand for places for young children."