FOLLOWING on from Cllr Bulmer’s front page comments with reference to the planning application submitted from Persimmon Homes for the erection of 323 dwellings on land adjoining Holbear, Forton Road, Chard.

I understand that a majority of people believe that Chard needs to grow.

But as a town there was a plan with phases. Not long ago I attended an area west meeting where in principle the go-ahead was given for 200-plus house to be crammed into a couple of fields between Ashcroft and Holbear.

That’s 200-plus house equalling on average 300 cars, possibly a minimum 400 adults and 400 children. Where are the schools, doctors, dentists for this build?

Less than a year after this was agreed, residents of Holbear have received letters outlining planning for a further 323 houses in land adjoining Forton Road, again possibly a further 500 to 600 children, again probably the same amount of cars, adults etc.

Both of these housing developments will gain access via the B3162 Forton to Chard road, or the Taworth Road, sending all vehicles towards St Mary’s Church.

The closest school would be Manor Court, which is already full. Doctors and dentists, police and hospitals (to name but a few) could not cope. And the road system through Chard I believe to be already at breaking point, because SSDC has only got to inform properties that are closest to these builds.

I worry that the town and in particular Forton Road, Lordleaze area, all the other roads along Forton Road, need to be aware of what is planned to be heading our way.

Tracey Berry, Chard

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