By Julie Waters
CAMPAIGNERS opposing controversial plans to build 135 homes on an historic woodland are hoping to reach a major milestone of 2,000 signatures on their petition as public opposition continues to grow.
Residents have rallied against the proposed development beside the current High Trees development, saying it provides a valuable habitat for wildlife and would put ‘unprecedented pressure on our infrastructure, schools, the health centre and local amenities’.
A petition has already attracted strong backing from local residents, with 1,024 signatures; campaigners are now urging members of the public to help push the campaign beyond the 2,000 signature mark.
A formal planning application is expected to be lodged later in the Autumn and deputy Mayor James Cochrane is supporting a number of residents who have approached him with their concerns about their proposed development.
Residents have voiced concerns that the planned development is on land classified as a Local Landscape Policy Area (LLPA); this planning designation is used to protect landscapes that have particular local importance because of their scenic quality natural features, historic setting or contribution to the character of a settlement.
Tanya Regan, who started the petition, is urging local people across the community to ‘speak up against this development’ and ‘join in this urgent cause’.
Mrs Regan said: “Donaghadee is a beautiful coastal town, cherished by its residents for its strong sense of community, unspoiled green spaces, and thriving local wildlife.
“The proposal to build 135 houses at High Trees threatens to change the very character of our beloved town, displacing wildlife and putting unprecedented pressure on our infrastructure, schools, health centre, and local amenities.”
Ms Regan said that as a Donaghadee resident she felt ‘compelled to speak up against this development as the construction of such a large number of houses represents a significant burden on our already strained infrastructure’.
“Our local roads, designed for a smaller population, will face increased traffic congestion, which can lead to safety concerns and reduced quality of life,” said Ms Regan.
“Moreover, our schools are already at full capacity, and increasing the student population without corresponding expansions will compromise the quality of education our children receive.
“Healthcare services in Donaghadee are another crucial concern. Our health centre is struggling to meet the current demands of the population, and an influx of new residents will only exacerbate these challenges, leading to longer wait times and reduced accessibility to necessary medical services.”
Ms Regan said the area’s ‘natural beauty and ecological balance’ were also ‘at risk’. “High Trees is home to various species of wildlife, which flourish in the existing habitats.
The construction will inevitably lead to habitat destruction, threatening these species and diminishing the biodiversity that makes Donaghadee unique.
“We cannot overlook the importance of preserving our local amenities and green spaces, which are vital for the wellbeing and recreation of our community. The proposed development will not only rob us of these precious areas but also alter the landscape that we hold dear.”
Ms Regan said that while ‘progress and expansion are aspects of modern life, they must be balanced against the environmental and societal impacts on small communities’.
She called for alternative proposals to be consider that would ‘accommodate the need for housing without sacrificing the character and quality of life in Donaghadee’.
Said Ms Regan: “Please sign this petition. Together, we can protect our community, our wildlife, and the cherished way of life that defines our town. Your support is crucial in ensuring that we preserve the unique charm and integrity of Donaghadee for generations to come.”
Deputy Mayor James Cochrane said: “I have been raising a number of concerns regarding this proposed planning application following engagement with many local residents.
“There are several issues that need to be addressed, including wastewater infrastructure and traffic congestion. Donaghadee has experienced significant population growth in recent years, yet regrettably the town’s infrastructure has not kept pace with that expansion.”
The Bangor East and Donaghadee councillor said: “Perhaps the most important aspect of this proposal is the potential impact on the area’s biodiversity.
The site is rich in wildlife and provides a habitat for protected species, including badgers and bats. It is essential that these environmental considerations are fully assessed and given the weight they deserve before any decision is made.”
To sign the petition log on to: change.org/p/object-to-building-135- houses-at-high-trees-donaghadee
