Historic Village Residents Fight New Housing Development: Sewage Capacity At Breaking Point

Michael

3 min read

Post on May 28, 2025

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Historic Village Residents Fight New Housing Development: Sewage Capacity at Breaking Point

A charming historic village is facing a modern-day dilemma: rapid development threatening its infrastructure. Residents of Ashton-under-Hill, a picturesque village nestled in the heart of Worcestershire, are locked in a fierce battle against plans for a large-scale housing development. Their primary concern? The village's aging sewage system is already operating at capacity, and the influx of new residents could push it to a breaking point, leading to environmental disaster and a significant decline in quality of life.

The proposed development, spearheaded by developer Hillcrest Homes, includes 150 new homes, a significant increase to Ashton-under-Hill's current population. While proponents argue the development will boost the local economy and provide much-needed housing, residents fear the consequences of insufficient infrastructure. "It's not just about the extra strain on our roads and schools," explains Margaret Davies, a lifelong resident and spokesperson for the newly formed "Save Ashton" campaign group. "It's about the potential for raw sewage to overflow into our cherished River Avon. The environmental impact is simply unacceptable."

Sewage System: A Ticking Time Bomb

Ashton-under-Hill's sewage system, a relic of a bygone era, struggles to cope with the current population. Frequent blockages and overflows are already a recurring problem, causing unpleasant odors and posing a significant health risk. The local council, while acknowledging the limitations of the existing infrastructure, maintains the development will proceed with "appropriate mitigation measures." However, details of these measures remain scarce, fueling residents' anxieties.

Key concerns raised by residents include:

• Sewage overflow: The increased volume of sewage generated by the new homes could overwhelm the system, leading to frequent overflows and pollution of the River Avon.
• Environmental damage: Pollution of the River Avon would have devastating consequences for the local ecosystem, affecting wildlife and water quality.
• Public health risk: Sewage overflows pose a significant risk to public health, potentially causing waterborne diseases.
• Property values: The potential for sewage problems could negatively impact property values in the village.

The Fight for Ashton-under-Hill's Future

The "Save Ashton" campaign is gaining momentum, with residents organizing protests, petitions, and engaging with local council members and MPs. They are demanding a comprehensive assessment of the sewage system's capacity and a commitment from Hillcrest Homes to upgrade the infrastructure before any construction begins. They are also seeking legal advice to explore all available avenues to challenge the development.

The situation highlights a growing concern across the UK: the mismatch between rapid housing development and the capacity of existing infrastructure. Many historic villages and towns are facing similar challenges, struggling to balance the need for new homes with the preservation of their environment and quality of life. The outcome of the fight in Ashton-under-Hill will be watched closely by other communities facing similar threats.

What can you do?

• Learn more: Research the planning application for the Ashton-under-Hill development.
• Support the campaign: Contact the "Save Ashton" campaign group to express your support.
• Contact your local MP: Let your elected representative know about the importance of protecting local infrastructure.

This case underscores the vital importance of thorough infrastructure planning before approving large-scale housing developments. Ignoring this crucial aspect can have devastating consequences for communities and the environment. The battle for Ashton-under-Hill serves as a stark warning for other villages and towns facing similar threats. The fight for Ashton's future continues.