Wednesday 22nd September 1999
Warminster Open Space Protection Society (WOSPS)
Flooding In Warminster – Support For The Solution
Dear WOSP,
Since we formed a little over 3 years ago we have fought the development of Warminster Common, Bugley Barton, St Andrew’s Road, the National Trust site in Boreham Road, Grovelands Way, Warminster School hockey pitch, Home Farm (east of The Dene), Victoria Road (H12) and numerous other incursions proposed in the First Alteration of the District Plan. We have managed to bring planned new houses in Warminster down from about a thousand to approximately 200. After three years of continuous operations some of us are beginning to think that it can be left for someone else to carry on the good work.
Much of our strength is drawn from those who do not use the open spaces that we fight to protect but are members because they oppose development because of the flooding problems that it causes to them, their friends and neighbours. Flooding is a key reason for refusing development but it is also hell on earth for those who suffer the effects. This is an appeal for you to turn out to support the Hydrological Survey which has identified a need for up to £125,000 worth of work for the Fore Street area. Our Councillor members have put a great deal of work into this project but must now fight for the necessary money when £300,000 is to be slashed off the District Council budget next year. They must be seen to have strong local support.
As the First Alteration of the District Plan moves towards its Enquiry In Public (EIP) it is clear that Wren Close, St Andrew’s Road, Bugley Barton and many others are under a sustained threat from developers. Your immediate area of interest may be quiet at the moment but it will come under threat again.
Having attended many council meetings it is clear that when a group of complainants or supporters turn up and some are prepared to speak it has a very real effect on the Councillors.
Please attend the Local Area Committee meeting at Kingdown School on Thursday 30th September at 7pm (and bring a friend). If you wish to speak please book in by 6.30pm. If you need a lift please call me.
Nigel D. Linge, Chairman.
6 Swift Mead, Warminster, Wilts, BA12 8DT.
Telephone (01985) 213644. Fax 300977.