Question from Councillor Allen to Councillor G Sutton:
“Given the concerns of local residents, can the portfolio holder please confirm that Chaulden Lane, the much-loved designated country lane, will not need any widening beyond the passing points agreed when the LA3 planning application was granted”
Councillor G Sutton responded that the proposals for development at site LA3 (land at West Hemel Hempstead) involve the provision of passing places on Chaulden Lane. Responsibility for the management and future use of the Lane rests with Hertfordshire County Council, which it regards as a rural route. Dacorum Borough Council has no further plans other than those in relation to site LA3 that it would wish to put to HCC in respect of Chaulden Lane.
Councillor Allen asked if there will be width restrictions on the static homes permissible at Chaulden Lane Gypsy and Traveller site which often can be as wide as 16ft and are often 14ft when the HCC assessment of the lane has only assessed on traffic that is 9.5ft wide?
Councillor G Sutton said he believed that it was up to the hauliers or carriers of these vehicles to ensure that they are able to travel through the lane but believes the passing places should allow the access required. This issue is faced across rural areas, especially on the coast with mobile holiday homes. He reassured Councillor Allen that this wouldn’t be turned into a rat run that can be used by the public.
Councillor Allen asked in the instance of there being wider loads, that might cause damage to hedgerows and banks of the lane, can the portfolio holder commit to working with Herts Highways to ensure that these wider loads do not cause damage?
Councillor G Sutton said he was sure that this could be included in the planning conditions of the site which are still being considered.
Councillor Allen asked if the Gypsy and Traveller community had been consulted on the HCC assessment which has assessed the lane on the basis of a 9.5ft wide load?
Councillor G Sutton said he was not privy to those conversations to be aware of it.