Realignment of The Street

Many local people are worried about these road works which are
narrowing down the carriageway width substantially.  The Parish Council and nearby residents were equally concerned when they first heard of the proposals, which were the idea of the highways authority, not the
developer of the new properties.  Sunley Homes did not want to do these works but were obliged to in order to improve sightlines at the exits from the new houses and Westminster Field.  We were very worried that, for instance, bringing the bus stopping bay onto the road rather than where it was before, tucked in to the wall, would create obstruction and obscure the view of drivers turning left out of the Field.  These fears were
ignored.  Although the width of the carriageway on the bend looks insufficient for 2 vehicles to pass, it is shown on the plans as being two-way and at 18 feet it will allow this.

Grazing Plot Fence

The fence that has been erected on the grazing plot opposite the
village hall has caused much concern because of its domestic urban appearance in the middle of the countryside.  Unfortunately for those who would like to see it removed, it is permitted development because it is less than
2 metres high. 

There is something called an
Article 4 Direction which would have control over future development but this has to be confirmed by the Secretary of State and the
planning authority thinks it unlikely that such a direction would be made on this land.

Darent Valley Path

The stretch of the Darent Valley Path between Station Road and Westminster Field has been overgrown with nettles for most of the Summer and the subject of many
complaints. 

This path should be cut by KCC but was missed off their schedule this year.  However they do now know about it.

Any further problems should be addressed to Graham Rusling on 01732 872829.  Keep a note of the number for next year so that you can let him know of any problems as soon as they occur.  The more calls he gets, the quicker things are likely to get sorted.

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