I am writing to voice my concerns regarding plans for housing developments in Newbiggin by the Sea and the surrounding area as laid out in the most recent neighbourhood plan.

Newbiggin already suffers from a lack of infrastructure, with schools, GP and dental appointments becoming more and more difficult to access as practices are suffering from a lack of funding. Roads and parking would also be impacted upon, with an increase in traffic, noise and air pollution. Without addressing these issues, the quality of life of existing residents will be reduced.

As well as that, I feel that it is of upmost importance to protect green spaces in the town to promote biodiversity in both flora and fauna and plans to build pose yet another threat to our already fragile ecosystem and wildlife. This is in direct contradiction to several policies proposed. 

I would kindly ask that all green areas in the town be protected from housing developments and instead be transformed into a wildflower meadows and orchards.

Wildflower meadows provide an important habitat for a variety of animals and pollinating insects and have been proven to be cost effective for councils to establish and maintain, with some councils in other areas of the country even saving thousands when replacing current grass mowers. They also play an important part in carbon offsetting, storing 3 tonne of carbon per hectare (more than double that of woodland).

They also provide a natural beauty to the surrounding area and this benefits the mental health of surrounding residents. I'm sure you can agree that this, after a difficult few years, must be considered.

They have, however, been in steep decline over the last century, with 97% of Britain's wildflower meadows lost. This has, of course, been at the detriment of our native wildlife and I believe that it is time we started to plan efforts to grow and care for our natural world rather than pave over it.

Orchards and woodland also provide an important habitat for wildlife as well as natural drainage, which would help defend against flooding in an area already troubled by subsidence from historic mining works. 

Improving our surrounding areas promotes education regarding the natural world amongst residents and younger generations and raises awareness of the importance of protecting our environment.

I also believe that creating environmentally friendly and sustainable areas would set an example to be followed by surrounding towns councils and the wider county.

Again, I ask that my voice be heard and plans to destroy our green areas and put profit ahead of our natural history and future be shelved.