The Labour/Lib Dem administration at Hertsmere Borough Council has published proposals for a new Local Plan, outlining future housing and infrastructure across the borough.

This new Local Plan has been brought about in response to the significant changes to the National Planning Policy Framework brought in by the Labour government after the General Election. These changes reversed reforms that I lobbied so hard for previously, particularly by reinstating top-down housing targets and redesignating large chunks of Green Belt land as “grey belt”, removing vital and necessary protections.

The Local Plan looks to deliver at least 16,160 new homes, with 3,054 earmarked for Bushey. I have grave concerns regarding the identified candidate sites, including at Bushey Golf and Country Club, the land east of Little Bushey Lane, the land north of Farm Way and Bushey Hall Golf Course.

This plan could be disastrous for Bushey, which is looking to completely change the character of our community and tarmac over precious Green Belt land.

The combination of decisions made by the Labour government and Labour/ Lib Dem council will lead to the likely loss of hundreds of acres of green space across Hertsmere.

I know that local people have raised concerns with me about these proposals, and similar planning applications, ruining our green spaces. I agree with residents and remain firmly of the view that these sites should remain Green Belt. Once open countryside is lost it is gone forever. Our children and grandchildren will pay the price. 

Your Conservative councillors and I will be holding the Labour / Lib Dem Council to account going forward to ensure that this new Plan addresses people’s concerns.

While I understand the fatigue many feel from being consulted again on another version of a Local Plan, I strongly encourage every Hertsmere resident to submit their views via the council’s website.