Havant Friends of the Earth

The Westwood Close development in Emsworth

Published in the Portsmouth News on the 1st March 2018
Story by Tamara Siddiqui

A PUBLIC exhibition to showcase plans for a new development and gain feedback from residents was held at a community centre.

Curious members of the public visited Emsworth Community Centre to learn more about Hampshire Homes’ plans to build 49 homes off Westwood Close, in Emsworth.

The move follows the Development Consultation Forum held at Havant Borough Council’s Public Service Plaza in January.

But some of those who attended said the boards of information, which were on display yesterday, told them ‘nothing new’.

Ray Cobbett, chair of the Havant branch of Friends of the Earth and who opposes the development, said: ‘Most of what I’ve seen today I’ve seen before, except for the very basic designs.

‘This is over-development on a valued piece of land – a green space with Emsworth on one side and Westbourne on the other.

‘The development isn’t even needed to meet the council’s housing targets.

‘It should have been designated as a green space by the council because it includes a much-loved historical footpath, which will now be diverted into a flood zone.’

Continue reading Footpath loss angers locals at Emsworth homes plan exhibition