Packed Public Meeting Shows Strength of Feeling Over Church Farm Green Belt

A packed public meeting at Claines Royal British Legion has highlighted the strength of local feeling over potential development on Green Belt land at Church Farm.

Residents, community representatives and local campaigners filled the venue on Friday evening to hear from Claines councillors Mel Allcott, Karen Holmes and Jessie Jagger about the emerging proposals and the planning process.

With no formal planning application yet submitted, the meeting focused on explaining what the current pre-application stage means, how Green Belt policy works, and how residents will be able to have their say should an application come forward.

Cllr Mel Allcott said: “The turnout speaks for itself. It was fantastic to see so many residents taking the time to come along, ask thoughtful questions and show how much they care about the future of Claines. As local councillors, our job is to represent those views loudly and clearly.”

Cllr Karen Holmes added: “There was a real sense of community in the room. Residents care deeply about the character and history of Claines, and it was encouraging to see so many people wanting to understand the planning process and engage with it.”

Cllr Jessie Jagger said: “This meeting demonstrated that residents want to be involved from the very beginning. Whatever happens next, we will continue to ensure local people are kept informed and that their voices are heard throughout the planning process.”

The councillors reiterated that they support new housing in appropriate locations but believe Green Belt land should only ever be considered as a last resort and only where genuinely exceptional circumstances can be demonstrated.

They thanked everyone who attended and encouraged residents to stay engaged as the proposals develop. If a planning application is submitted, there will be a formal public consultation during which everyone will have the opportunity to comment.

Concerned residents have set up a website giving information on the plans and what to do to voice objections. It can be found @ https://www.saveclainesgreenbelt.org