The cherished Green Belt land in Hanham faces an imminent threat as developers Ashfield Land Ltd and Redrow Homes Ltd have launched an appeal against South Gloucestershire Council's decision to refuse their planning application. This appeal represents a critical moment for our community and the future of our local Green Belt.
The Developers' Appeal
Ashfield Land and Redrow Homes are appealing against South Gloucestershire Council's refusal of application P23/01330/O, which proposed:
Demolition of 64 Hencliffe Way
Construction of up to 140 new dwellings
Associated public open space, landscaping, and drainage works
New access from Hencliffe Way and Castle Farm Road
The site in question lies south of Hencliffe Way and west of Castle Farm Road—precious Green Belt land that forms an important buffer between Hanham and surrounding areas.
Why Developers Think They Can Win
The developers' appeal hinges on several controversial claims:
Housing Need Argument: They claim South Gloucestershire has "an acute need" for market and affordable housing, and that the Council is failing to meet targets.
"Grey Belt" Classification: The developers are attempting to downgrade our Green Belt by labelling it as "grey belt"—claiming it "does not make a strong contribution to any relevant green belt purposes."
Settlement Boundary Technicalities: They argue that settlement boundaries haven't been reviewed for 30 years and are therefore "out-of-date."
Minimising Landscape Impact: Despite acknowledging "moderate/slight adverse effects" on the immediate landscape, they dismiss broader environmental concerns.
Why This Appeal Must Be Opposed
This appeal represents a dangerous precedent that could undermine Green Belt protections throughout our area. If successful, it would:
Erode the essential gap between Hanham and surrounding areas, leading to urban sprawl
Destroy valuable open countryside that contributes to the rural character of our area
Set a precedent for further Green Belt development in South Gloucestershire
Increase pressure on local infrastructure, including roads, schools, and healthcare
Impact the quality of life for existing residents, particularly those on Hencliffe Way, Bickley Close, Riverside Way and Castle Farm Road.
Your Voice Matters: Act Before 10th March
The Planning Inspectorate will only consider objections received before the deadline of 10th March 2025. Every submission counts in demonstrating the community's opposition to this development.
Your objection could help protect this land from inappropriate development and preserve the Green Belt for future generations. Points you might consider including in your submission:
The site's importance to the Green Belt's purposes of preventing urban sprawl and safeguarding countryside
Local wildlife and biodiversity, including ancient woodland that would be harmed by this development
Adverse effects on the local landscape of the Avon Valley including loss of openness
The loss of a much-loved recreational space
The harm caused to local heritage assets including two Grade II listed buildings
Increased traffic and pollution concerns
The precedent this development would set for future Green Belt applications
Personal reasons why this area is important to you and the community
How to Submit Your Comments
For detailed guidance on how to submit your comments to the Planning Inspectorate, please visit the Hanham District Green Belt Conservation Society website at:
The webpage provides step-by-step instructions on formatting your submission and ensuring it reaches the Planning Inspectorate before the deadline.
Conclusion
The Green Belt was established to prevent exactly this type of urban encroachment. Once our Green Belt is lost, it cannot be recovered. By working together, we can demonstrate the strength of community feeling and help ensure this valuable landscape remains protected for future generations.
Don't delay—make your submission today and encourage friends, family and neighbours to do the same before the 10th March deadline.
Together, we can protect Hanham's Green Belt.
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