Westleigh residents campaign against proposed housing development

Residents of Westleigh have united to oppose a proposed housing development on a local field in their village.

The group, Hands Off Westleigh Fields, has been vocal about their concerns regarding the proposed construction of nine luxury homes. 

At the moment, no applications for the houses have been submitted.

According to the group, a planning application for the development is expected to be submitted this month (August).

Calvin Cumiskey, a local resident, spearheaded the campaign by distributing a questionnaire to gauge the community's stance on the issue.

The results showed overwhelming opposition, with approximately 97 per cent of the 63 respondents against more housing in the green spaces around Westleigh.

Mr Cumiskey told the Gazette: “The hedge (surrounding the field) is a protected feature full of wildlife.” 

He also explained that the fields in question are currently rented to a local farmer, adding to the community's attachment to the land.

The questionnaire revealed significant worries among residents, including inadequate roads for construction traffic, potential damage to the village's character and environment, and negative impacts on local wildlife. 

Comments from residents included fears about increased traffic, noise pollution, and the strain on local infrastructure.

A summary of the responses shows that residents are not only concerned about the immediate impact of the construction but also the long-term effects on the village’s tranquillity and heritage.

Comments from the questionnaire included: “Westleigh must remain an unspoilt settlement. We do not want it developed as the likes of Buckland Brewer, Parkham, Abbotsham.”

Others said: “Westleigh is a quiet, peaceful settlement that has beautiful views and walks. Its uniqueness should be valued and protected.”

Other comments from the questionnaire highlight the villagers' deep connection to their environment. 

Residents noted: “All our green spaces are disappearing. Noise pollution, light pollution, loss of habitat.”

They even highlighted concerns on the area's infrastructure, saying: “The existing sewer system can’t cope with Westleigh at the moment. It releases sewage into the river almost daily. How will it possibly cope with more household waste?”

The sense of community in Westleigh is also a significant concern for residents. 

Many worry that the development will disrupt the village's close-knit atmosphere. 

Further comments from the questionnaire explained that: “A small, quiet village, virtually unchanged; any building work should be done to maintain or enhance the character of the village, not expand it with modern builds.

“Westleigh is a beautiful village overlooking the protected heritage harbour area of the River Torridge. It is the first thing you see as you travel up the river, and any overdevelopment would be an eyesore.”

In addition to the environmental and infrastructural issues, residents fear that the development will negatively impact the local village hall and the overall aesthetic of Westleigh.

“Most certainly, putting the village hall under threat by taking away its unique setting,” another noted.

The Gazette reached out to the consultancy company regarding the proposal but has not received a response.