The Molesey Residents Association is a non-party political organisation which aims to protect and enhance the amenities and the environment of East and West Molesey.

UPDATED 06/01/13 Elmbridge Consultation on “Settlement, Investment & Development” Plans

The Council has confirmed that there have been no decisions following the April 2013 consultation.  It is envisaged that the next round of consultation will take place in the Autumn of 2014.  This will set out those sites that the Council is recommending should be allocated for future development and those which should be protected in their existing use. 

MRA will continue to strongly oppose any suggestion that Molesey Heath is suitable for housing or occupation as a travellers’ site.  There would be significant access difficulties, since the only viable access is from Approach Road, a narrow cul de sac in West Molesey.  In addition the Council’s own assessment confirms that there is a serious flood risk here (the area has been flooded badly in the past), and there is also significant methane below the surface (resulting from the land’s former use as a refuse site).

In view of our ongoing concerns Cllr Mike Axton has asked EBC officers to ensure that he and other MRA Councillors are fully involved in the preparation of the next round of consultation.  We will continue to keep residents informed of progress via the website and our local Newsletters.

LATEST UPDATE PLEASE SEE MRA RESPONSE: Settlement Plans Consultation

Elmbridge Council has launched a public consultation on draft Settlement Investment and Development Plans.  These are important documents which will set the framework for future investment and development within local areas in partnership with the local community. A plan has been produced for each of the eight settlements in Elmbridge, one of which covers East and West Molesey.
 
The documents identify
 
  • Key sites for the delivery of housing, commercial and community development
  • Pitches for Gypsies and Travellers
  • Schools and colleges where there are opportunities for expansion
  • Open spaces that need to be protected and some earmarked for enhancement
  • Employment land that should remain as such because of its strategic importance
  • Infrastructure improvements and priorities
 
More information, and details about how to submit views, can be obtained via the link:
 
http://consult.elmbridge.gov.uk/consult.ti/Draft_ID_Plans/consultationHome
 
MRA will be studying the documents carefully.  We think it is important in particular to:
 
  • object to the classification of Mole Hall as an “opportunity site”.  This is an important local amenity which must be protected;
 
  • oppose the classification of part of Molesey Heath (the former sewage works site) as suitable for housing development.  This should be brought inside the green classification which applies to the rest of Molesey Heath (note however that you will need to look for information about this site in the document covering Walton);
 
  • request that Hurst Meadows is given permanent protection as a recreation/nature site
 
  • seek appropriate protection from over-development for the historic and strategic “Jolly Boatman” site opposite Hampton Court Station
 
 
The consultation will run from 8 April 2013 and 20 May 2013, and MRA would encourage local residents to look at the documents and make their views known. 
 

Published on Wednesday, November 6th, 2013
in General Interest

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