Taylor Wimpey is back again with proposals to build 250 new homes on land in Winnersh, much to the furore of many local residents. 

The 10-hectare site at Watmore Lane has been the subject of multiple applications by the property development company, with the latest again proposing the development of 250 new homes on the vacant land. 

Two previous applications have been submitted, one in 2013 for the construction of 150 homes which was refused by Wokingham Borough Council for reasons including it not being a sustainable urban development and its impact on local infrastructure. 

The second, an increase to 250 homes, was withdrawn by the applicant following well over 100 objections by residents. 

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A screening opinion application was submitted in July of this year to determine whether an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was required ahead of submitting a full plan, which also includes associated access points and infrastructure. 

Resident Mr Dennis Goodlad said there are “significant environmental issues” in the area and requested that a full EIA be undertaken “in advance” of any further application. 

Mr Goodlad cited air pollution, as part of this site falls within an Air Quality Monitoring Zone, and noise, owning to the fact that the site “would be impacted” by the M4 to the south and the A329(M) from the north, as some of the reasons for the assessment being required. 

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The site is comprised of a single large field separated into sections and utilised for arable crop production and modified grassland. The field is enclosed by intact, native hedgerows with a number of mature standard trees.  

A small section of ancient woodland is present within the north-east corner of the site, adjacent to the Emm Brook which flows along the site’s eastern edge. 

The site is not located within a National Park, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or Area of High Landscape Value.   

Mr Jeff Carter decried the plan to develop on “the last bit of green space left in Winnersh”, which he called “a natural habitat” for including deer, foxes, bats and birds. 

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“Such a shame that you feel the need to ruin a peaceful wildlife and farm field just for the greed of houses,” he added. 

In response to the screening opinion, Wokingham Borough Council’s Development Management and Compliance Team said: “[…] it is considered that the proposed development would not be EIA Development.” 

Taylor Wimpey can now decide whether to submit a full proposal for consideration by the council’s planning committee.