CAMPAIGNERS are taking action to stop a potential development in Evendons.
Last month Berkeley Homes, the developer, engaged in a public consultation with residents after it unveiled plans to build homes near Blagrove Lane in Wokingham.
The development, called Blagrove Meadows, would feature “around 375 energy efficient homes, with a mix of sizes and types, including 40% affordable properties”.
Last week, Berkeley Homes submitted an official outline planning application to Wokingham Borough Council for “up to 350 homes, new access onto Barkham Road, community space and onsite Suitable Alternative Natural Green space (SANG).
Residents in the area have described the proposals as “destructive”.
Paul Tolan, a local resident working on the Save our Blagrove Meadows campaign, said: “This area really is unspoilt countryside on the edge of Wokingham
“Deer run everyday all the way into Newbury and these properties would push the wildlife out which is a real joy for local people.
“During the pandemic people with access to outdoor areas felt huge benefits and I don’t think concreting over large areas of greenland is what we should be doing.”
Mr Tolan is also concerned about the impact an influx of people could have on local services including healthcare and schools.
He also feels some of the local infrastructure wouldn’t be able to handle a rise in population.
“This development of 357 houses would have a hugely negative impact on services,” he said.
“Many residents already find it difficult to get a GP appointment in the area.
“There would also be an increased demand on schools with families coming to the town and secondary school places are already short in the borough.
“With more people there is the inevitable increase in traffic.
“There is already standing traffic every morning and this will make an already bad situation much worse.”
On Friday, July 22, the Evendons Area Residents Association (EARA) organised a walk of the area.
Starting at Viking Field, more than 100 residents made their way through Lesley Sears Field and onto Blagrove Lane where they reviewed the potential development site.
A spokesperson for the EARA said: “Many were surprised at the development’s size and scale.
“The overwhelming feeling from everybody present is that we have to fight this destructive development and protect our countryside and our wildlife.”
The EARA is hosting another event on Sunday, August 7, at 4pm.
For more information, or to learn more about the campaign, visit: evendons-area.org.uk
