In respect of the Draft Local Plan I am specifically concerned with the proposed development of Area 9 - South of Knowle for housing and the construction of a new Arden School campus as a result of funds being provided by the developers and land contributed by the local landowner (on condition housing is provided). The construction of 750 homes in this location is entirely inappropriate and the character of the village of Knowle will be destroyed. The infrastructure is inadequate, already stretched and will be unable to cope with such an increase in housing.

It also reflects poorly on the Council that strong rumours circulating in the local community as well as reflected by representatives in the Planning Department is that this is a 'done deal' because it serves the aims of developers, local landowners, Executive Principal of Arden School and other vested interests but it does not serve the character and community of Knowle.

By all means build a new school but do not fund it by selling out to the developers. Be creative and think of other funding means instead of ruining the village with unnecessary housing development.