Residents Fight New Housing Development In Historic Village Over Sewage Concerns

Michael

3 min read

Post on May 28, 2025

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Residents Fight New Housing Development in Historic Village Over Sewage Concerns

A historic village is facing a battle over its future as residents fiercely oppose a proposed housing development, citing serious concerns about the existing sewage system's capacity. The development, slated for the outskirts of the quaint village of Ashton, has sparked outrage amongst locals who fear the project will overwhelm the already struggling infrastructure, leading to environmental damage and health hazards.

The proposed development, spearheaded by developer Green Meadows Housing, plans to construct 150 new homes on a previously undeveloped green space. While Green Meadows highlights the much-needed housing boost and economic benefits for Ashton, residents remain unconvinced, citing their primary concern: the village’s antiquated sewage system.

Sewage System at Breaking Point?

Ashton's sewage system, a relic of a bygone era, has long been a point of contention. Residents report frequent blockages, overflowing drains, and a persistent unpleasant odor, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. These issues are well documented in local council reports, highlighting a consistent lack of investment in upgrading the aging infrastructure.

"We've been complaining about this for years," says Margaret Davies, a lifelong Ashton resident and spokesperson for the newly formed "Save Ashton" action group. "The council has promised improvements, but nothing concrete has been done. Adding 150 new homes will push the system beyond its limits, causing widespread sewage overflows and potentially contaminating our water sources."

The "Save Ashton" group has gathered over 500 signatures on a petition opposing the development, citing environmental concerns as their primary reason for protest. They argue that the potential for sewage spills poses a significant risk to the village's delicate ecosystem and the health of its residents. They also highlight the potential devaluation of existing properties due to the increased risk of pollution.

Green Meadows Responds

Green Meadows Housing, in response to the growing opposition, has released a statement assuring residents that the development will include provisions to mitigate the potential impact on the sewage system. They claim that they will invest in upgrading a section of the existing network and are working closely with the local council to ensure the development’s compliance with environmental regulations.

However, these assurances have failed to quell the residents' anxieties. Many feel that the proposed upgrades are insufficient to handle the increased load, and they remain skeptical of the developer's commitment to environmental responsibility.

Council Caught in the Middle

The Ashton Borough Council finds itself in a difficult position, caught between the need for new housing and the legitimate concerns of its residents. A council spokesperson stated that they are carefully reviewing the development plans and conducting an environmental impact assessment. The council has promised a public hearing to discuss the issue and gather further input from the community.

What's Next?

The future of Ashton and the proposed housing development remains uncertain. The "Save Ashton" group plans to continue its campaign, lobbying the council and raising public awareness about the potential environmental and health consequences. The upcoming public hearing will be a crucial moment, determining whether the voices of the residents will be heard and their concerns addressed before construction begins. The outcome will set a precedent for similar developments in other historic villages facing similar infrastructure challenges. The situation underscores the critical need for robust infrastructure planning alongside housing development, particularly in areas with limited capacity.

Keywords: Ashton, housing development, sewage concerns, environmental impact, historic village, Green Meadows Housing, Save Ashton, public hearing, infrastructure upgrade, sewage system, water pollution, community protest, petition.