Early on the Commission realised that many proposed and actual developments at the Common's boundaries could impact on its wildlife or the natural beauty on and around its limits. The intrusive lighting from the English Provender building and a proposal by Sainsbury to construct a massive supply depot along the northern edge of New Greenham Park were early examples where the foreseen environmental impact on the Common raised concern. On investigation it transpired that the commission could not be classified as a Statutory Consultee. When the Commission became aware that the M.O.D. had sold the G.A.M.A. site (Missile silo site) to a company which planned to store historic aircraft and vehicles , it was decided to set up a committeee to monitor all planning applications that might impact on the Common.
The Committee does not meet regularly but when a particular application comes up that needs review it either meets formally or contacts by e-mail. Major reviews and objections / comments agreed to date consist of: -
a) Sainsbury Depot
This site is now purchased by Prologis. The concern here is the height of proposed buildings which obscures the valued views across to the North Hampshire Downs, lighting which will disturb nocturnal wildlife, and noise disturbing the peace of the Common days and nights. Prologis went to appeal after their planning application was rejected. The appeal was granted but no work has commenced due to current economic situation.
b) Crookham Park Hospital
A new application for a 15m security fence was submitted. The boundary was altered with the agreement of the Commission. The new fence has now been erected within the perimeter ditch boundary and is reasonably unobtrusive.
c) The G.A.M.A. site
This application was resubmitted for use as a car storage depot. The owners have undertaken to limit this to ten years and to convert one of the bunkers into a Cold War Museum. The Commission objected on the grounds that some common land would be taken to allow for manouevring transporters. There were additional concerns regarding noise and lighting and security against access by travelers onto the Common. The matter of taking land was overcome by careful layout of access. On the other matters the applicants have undertaken to minimise noise and lighting and to keep 24-hour security. None of their undertakings form part of the planning approval, however.
d) Revision of the junction of Crookham Hill and Thornford Road
This requires land exchange and has been postponed.
e) A new roundabout at the junction of Greenham Road and Pinchington Lane
This required land exchange was agreed with the Council Highways Department. Work is now complete.
f) Highway improvements along Bury's Bank Road
These were not extensive and have been implemented.
The Council Planning Department has undertaken to inform the Commission's Planning Committee of any applications that fall within 10 metres of the boundary. However members take it upon themselves to monitor applications before the Council to ensure none slip through unobserved.
The present committee members are:
Frank Huxtable
Derek Emes
Mel Gatward
Helen Williams
Surbjit Tomka
All contents © Greenham & Crookham Commons Commission, unless otherwise credited.
Website layout and hosting by Greenham Common Trust.