Dear all,
We’re asking again for your attention. There is a further application in Steep Marsh for change of use. This time it is at the Barn next door to Great Oast. The link to object and find more information is here.
Steep Marsh seems to be turning into an Industrial Estate. We are very concerned about the 2 planning applications (3rd is pending) currently affecting Steep Marsh and the roads through Sheet, Steep & Wheatham.
There seems to be a relaxed view among people living here that the most recent application at Gardners Farm will automatically be refused – unfortunately we cannot rely on the planning system – The Brickyards is a testament to this as we have lost all objections to the Brickyards, in addition we have failed to get the council to enforce the most basic of planning constraints.
We need to act in unison and in quantity. The last application at Garners Farm only managed to achieve 11 objections (although it was very last minute).
Why do we feel so strongly?
1. Previous Applications and What’s Happening Now
A number of past applications have already been approved, and we’re now facing two new planning applications that would turn farm buildings into storage and distribution units – the ubiquitous DPD man.
There will be a third application coming, based on current adverts (see here) where the chicken sheds at the end of the Brickyards are being advertised for Industrial/Warehouse/
These types of businesses create an increase in regular van and lorry traffic, noise, and longer working hours.
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2. Roads and Traffic Concerns
Our roads are narrow and winding—designed for light local use, not heavy traffic or HGVs. If all these applications go through, we could see a big rise in traffic through the village, with safety risks for walkers, cyclists, horse riders, children playing and drivers alike. It is a 60 mph speed limit through Steep Marsh with no pavements. It’s amazing no one has been injured.
Please be aware that over the last 10 years we have already seen an 80% increase in traffic (an analysis was done 3 years ago). Sadly, although from the A3 there is a 7.5 tonne limit to traffic this is unenforceable.
3. Gradual Development and Creep
Over time, we’ve seen more and more buildings in the area being changed from agricultural use to something else. While each one seems small, together they’re slowly changing the character of our peaceful hamlet and the roads that feed our properties. Walk up the road past the Great Oast and look at the state of the rubbish left near the barn…
4. What It Means for Our Village and Homes
If more commercial use is allowed, it will change the feel of Steep Marsh, especially if units are used to store things like building materials (mentioned in the application). We’re worried this might affect how peaceful the area feels—and will have an adverse effect on property values.
What Can You Do?
Please object!!!
I have attached an objection I have submitted, we encourage you to alter (maybe make more succinct 
) and develop your own objection and submit it to the planning portal here
If you need help understanding how to object or want more information, feel free to get in touch with me or other residents or the parish council.
Thank you for reading, and for helping protect Steep Marsh.
Warm regards,
Chairman
Steep Marsh Residents Assoc
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