Many Harlow residents have written to me in recent weeks, with concerns about a planned housing development in Gilden Way.
We do urgently need more affordable homes, and regeneration of our town centre. But we must also preserve the original design principles of Harlow - like the green wedges that make our town unique.
A few days ago, I joined in a spirited demonstration by local residents against the Gilden Way plans, and have urged the Council and relevant committees to take their concerns into account - and those of many other residents - about over-development and lack of support for infrastructure.
I have been very active on this, meeting with numerous residents, and also taking some to meet with the developers just before Christmas last year.
As Harlow MP, I have no powers over planning applications. However, I have put out a statement on my views to the authorities, and I will always represent the views of local people. That is why I have made my feelings clear to the Council and also to the developers.
Another case recently was the Gowers. It is a beautiful Harlow conservation area, and many of its trees are hundreds of years old. Yet this peaceful community is also facing a serious threat from over-development, which in the view of many, is in no way sympathetic with the surrounding houses.
The community's case is simple: housing must be in keeping with the environment.
Everyone feels strongly about housing development, especially if it affects their street. That is why I will be voting for the Localism Bill in Parliament in a few weeks time. The new laws will give people a genuine say in decision-making, and help people to stop problems like garden-grabbing, or building on green belt.
I believe the case for the Localism Bill has never been stronger. After years of top-down targets and bureaucracy, we need a planning system that puts Harlow people in charge.
We do urgently need more affordable homes, and regeneration of our town centre. But we must also preserve the original design principles of Harlow - like the green wedges that make our town unique.
A few days ago, I joined in a spirited demonstration by local residents against the Gilden Way plans, and have urged the Council and relevant committees to take their concerns into account - and those of many other residents - about over-development and lack of support for infrastructure.
I have been very active on this, meeting with numerous residents, and also taking some to meet with the developers just before Christmas last year.
As Harlow MP, I have no powers over planning applications. However, I have put out a statement on my views to the authorities, and I will always represent the views of local people. That is why I have made my feelings clear to the Council and also to the developers.
Another case recently was the Gowers. It is a beautiful Harlow conservation area, and many of its trees are hundreds of years old. Yet this peaceful community is also facing a serious threat from over-development, which in the view of many, is in no way sympathetic with the surrounding houses.
The community's case is simple: housing must be in keeping with the environment.
Everyone feels strongly about housing development, especially if it affects their street. That is why I will be voting for the Localism Bill in Parliament in a few weeks time. The new laws will give people a genuine say in decision-making, and help people to stop problems like garden-grabbing, or building on green belt.
I believe the case for the Localism Bill has never been stronger. After years of top-down targets and bureaucracy, we need a planning system that puts Harlow people in charge.
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