Hundreds oppose West Berkshire Council's Pincents Hill planning application

A planning application was submitted to West Berkshire Council (WBC) on January 27, to build on a section of Pincents Hill, Tilehurst.

Key aspects of the plans include the building of 265 homes, a community healthcare hub and the development of more roads to the land east of Pincents Lane.

But after many previous planning applications to the area, some locals are once again opposing the plans, with a petition and organisation set up to stop the development from going ahead.

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Pincents Hill

The petition reads: "This area is a haven for wildlife. It is also a wonderful place to walk and enjoy nature.

"If the pandemic has taught us anything it's that we need more green spaces.

"Calcot is already overpopulated and a huge development is going up opposite Dorking Way.

"We are all very concerned about the impact this development will have on the roads as well as the local schools which are full, another huge estate would only increase pressure.

"Wildlife in the UK is sadly declining due to loss of habitat.

"The hedgehog has only recently been listed as endangered. We need to protect our green spaces.

"Perhaps this area could become a nature reserve instead."

Pincents Lane

The application states that, if approved, plans will protect any mature trees and respects the need to protect any wildlife.

Access to the site via Pincents Lane would require an upgrade to the lane, including footpath facilities adjacent to the road, potentially within the boundary of the new development.

A comment on the application said: "This could be a lovely community, provided the health facility is included, together with local convenience store."

A total of 402 people have signed the petition (as of February 3), and WBC has asked for comments to the amendments to be received by February 16.

These can be sent by e-mail at planapps@westberks.gov.uk or by post to development and planning service, West Berkshire District Council Council Offices.

PICTURED: West Berkshire Council is asking for feedback on the plans to be sent by February 16

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One petition comment reads: "This area is a haven for flora and fauna.

"Badgers, bats, hedgehogs, deer, rabbits and pollinating insects call this area their home.

"Who are we to take their homes and food sources away from them? "For many species you simply can't pick them up and relocate them.

"Nature has been our saviour during these tough times so rather than destroy it we should be doing what ever we can to protect it.

"Once it's gone, it's gone!

"AND Our green space is more important now than ever, please sign."

To view the petition, click here.

West Berkshire Council has been contacted for a comment.