Alistair Cameron opposes plans to build 190 houses at Swindon Lane, opposite Cheltenhamracecourse.

8.11.00pm GMT Thu 18th Feb 2010

An outline planning application has been put before Cheltenham Borough Council to build 190 houses at Swindon Lane, opposite the racecourse.

Alistair Cameron, Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesman for Tewkesbury Constituency, has stated he is strongly opposed to these plans as the area is within the Green Belt and it would result in the loss of some precious green fields. He commented, "I believe Cheltenham's housing requirements should be met through the redevelopment of existing sites, which could help to regenerate the town, rather than by allowing the Green Belt to be destroyed. The Green Belt exists to prevent the coalescence of built up areas and if this planning permission is granted, the separation of Cheltenham from Bishops Cleeve will be irretrievably damaged."

Alistair told us that the traffic is bad at all times of the day along Swindon Lane although the congestion problem is most acute during the rush hour and when significant events are held at the racecourse. In addition, during the 2007 floods, nearby gardens and garages were flooded which raises concerns about the risk of flooding for newly built houses and existing homes in the area. More housing may also cause additional stresses on existing sewers which cannot cope at present.