We, the undersigned, call on Test Valley Borough Council and any future planning authority responsible for Velmore Farm to ensure that the proposed development of approximately 1,070 homes is not taken forward until its impacts on infrastructure, traffic, flooding, water resources, agricultural land, the River Itchen environment and local services have been fully and transparently assessed.

We recognise the need for additional housing and understand the challenges facing local authorities in meeting housing requirements. Many residents of Valley Park, Chandler's Ford and surrounding communities support sustainable growth, but believe that development of this scale must be supported by robust evidence, adequate infrastructure and effective environmental safeguards.

Particular concern has been raised about water supply, wastewater capacity and the potential impact of future growth on the River Itchen and its internationally important chalk stream environment. Residents believe these issues should be fully understood and satisfactorily addressed before decisions are taken on development of this scale.

We therefore ask decision-makers to provide clear, transparent and publicly accessible evidence demonstrating that the following matters have been properly assessed and can be satisfactorily addressed:

• Water supply and wastewater capacity, including potential impacts on the River Itchen and its associated habitats,
• Traffic congestion, air quality and road safety, including routes used by children travelling to and from local schools,
• Flooding, surface-water and drainage risks,
• The ability of local schools, GP services and other essential infrastructure to accommodate additional demand,
• The loss of approximately 50% of the site's Best and Most Versatile (Grade 3a) agricultural land, and the implications for food security and long-term national resilience,
• The loss of green space and its importance in maintaining the distinct identity, character and separation of Valley Park and nearby settlements,
• Biodiversity, wildlife and wider environmental impacts,
• Alternative sites and development options, and
• How residents' views, evidence and consultation responses will continue to be formally recorded and considered throughout the planning process, including in the event of changes to planning arrangements or local government responsibilities.

We ask the relevant authorities to ensure that residents' views and evidence remain properly considered throughout the planning process, and that decisions are transparent and supported by the available evidence.

This petition is not an objection to housing in principle. It is a call for proper assessment, adequate infrastructure, environmental protection and meaningful community engagement before decisions are made about Velmore Farm.