Crowborough Townspeople |
AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY (AONB) LAND NORTH OF ERIDGE ROAD, CROWBOROUGH
Crowborough’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is now under threat by the proposed development of 119 Houses (WD/2017/2197/MAO) in the fields adjoining the Goldsmith Recreation Ground, Luxford Farm (listed building) and fronting Eridge Road.
The High Weald AONB is one of only 36 in England. The protection enjoyed by this landscape, is not just in planning policy but in legislation(Section 85 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act).
The Co Directors of the High Weald AONB stated that: “…the AONB special character is that it is a hidden landscape with rolling hills, secret valleys and copious woodland and mature hedges. It is a landscape that has remained largely intact since the 14th century and the heritage and cultural value of it’s medieval farmsteads and fields are an integral part of its natural beauty.”
Whilst recognising there is a national requirement for more housing, land designated AONB should only be considered as a last resort when all other sites have been fully investigated. Therefore, many Townspeople believe that this land should not be developed into 119 Houses but should be protected for its environmental and recreational
benefits.
benefits.