Following on from my last Bushey News column, the Labour / Lib Dem Council have launched the public consultation for the new Local Plan. I wanted to take this opportunity to look at the proposals in further detail.

It is a key priority of mine to protect our precious green open spaces for generations to come. That is why I have grave concerns that the Local Plan proposes to build on the Green Belt.

For the proposed site at Bushey Country Club, the Labour / Lib Dem coalition have indicated building 165 houses on Green Belt land.

I know how much local people value green spaces. One of the great pleasures of living in our part of Hertfordshire is the countryside we have right on our doorstep. I grew up enjoying the green fields around Hertsmere and love the space and freedom it provides. It makes our towns and villages distinct and special places to live.

Cllr Paul Morris has led a consultation group since 2018 regarding the Country Club and worked extremely hard in his commitment to engage with the public on the site. His proposal, that development should take place at the rear of the site, has been ignored.

Another proposal that I know will be very unpopular with residents is the site at Hartsbourne Country Club. The Local Plan proposes an indicative 20 houses, yet I understand that Hartsbourne Country Club have no intention of building more than 12. 

I will be registering my concerns with the Council for these sites and for other sites across Hertsmere. I would strongly encourage everyone in Hertsmere to submit their own views on the Local Plan by responding to the Council’s public consultation, available on their website. The public consultation will remain open until 29 May.