3D model showing housing impact to go on display

A HUGE 3D model of what Saffron Walden will look like in 15 years’ time if Uttlesford District Council’s Local Development Framework gets the green light will be on display in the market square this Saturday.

Campaign group WeAreResidents.org, which opposes proposals to build 880 homes in the town between now and 2028, is taking to the streets to showcase the impact of the planned new estate so that residents can see the scale of what is being proposed.

WeAreResidents.org spokesman Dan Starr said: “This new estate will concrete over 200 acres of prime farmland for what the UDC cabinet indicate is a minimum of 860 homes.

“It’s massive – the size of the Winstanley Road, Cromwell Road and Rowntree Way estates combined. And the land could yield many more houses, but UDC has not disclosed this larger number.

“Because the houses are planned for the east, and all the jobs, trains, main roads and secondary schools are on the west, 1,000s more cars will deluge our already often gridlocked town, causing misery for residents and damage to the historical areas.

“Residents have made more than 1,000 3D model houses over the last few weeks and we strongly encourage people to come down and see the map, ask questions and register with us to receive email updates on the campaign.

“Children can also come to the market square on Saturday and help us finish the models.”

The group will be in the market square between 9.30am and 12.30pm.