As a resident of Hay a Park Estate in Knaresborough, I am deeply concerned about the proposed Water Lane development that threatens to disrupt our peaceful community and harm our local environment. This petition aims to gather support from fellow residents and concerned citizens who share these concerns and want to protect our neighbourhood.

The proposed Water Lane development would bring hundreds of additional vehicles through our estate.  This influx of traffic would not only create noise pollution but also pose significant risks to pedestrians, cyclists, and children playing in the area.

Furthermore, this development threatens our local environment by encroaching on precious green spaces that provide habitat for wildlife and contribute to cleaner air quality. The increased traffic will inevitably lead to higher levels of air pollution in an area that should be cherished for its fresh air and natural surroundings.

To support these concerns: 

1. Traffic Impact: The proposed development will generate construction traffic for over a year and when complete will leave all the access to the new houses to be going along Florin Drive.  This is a relatively narrow estate road and has cars parked along it at all times.

2. Environmental Impact: The destruction of green spaces caused by this development will have detrimental effects on local wildlife populations such as birds, small mammals, insects, etc., which rely on these areas for their survival. Additionally, the proposed development borders an area of Special Scientific Interest.  There is little to no mitigation against this in the proposed plan.

It is crucial that we take action now before it's too late! By signing this petition, you are voicing your opposition against the Water Lane development project and demanding that local authorities reconsider their plans.

We urge North Yorkshire Council

1. To halt any further progress on the Water Lane development project until a comprehensive environmental impact assessment has been conducted, taking into account the concerns of Hay a Park Estate residents.

2. Revisit the sites place in the Local Plan.  This part of Knaresborough has seen six other developments in the last years with three still under construction.  There has been no corresponding improvement in infrastructure.  It is impossible to get an NHS dentist in town.

Together, we can make a difference and protect our area from overdevelopment and save the Hay a Park lake SSI.

Note: Please remember to share this petition with fellow residents, neighbours, friends, and family who are also concerned about the Water Lane development. Together we can amplify our voices and ensure that they are heard by those in power.