Gomm Valley Approved
Cllr Jonathan Waters was the only Committee member who felt unable to support the approval. He remained unconvinced that the proposed financial mitigation would meaningfully address the congestion already experienced along the A40, where tailbacks on Hammersley Lane and Robinson Road are a daily frustration for residents. He also highlighted the serious safety concerns for pedestrians who will continue to walk under the narrow railway bridge on Hammersley Lane—an area with no pavements—rather than follow the indirect route suggested in the application.
Cllr Waters also took the opportunity to acknowledge the long‑standing efforts of the dedicated residents’ groups who have worked tirelessly on these issues over many years, including P&TGRS.
Although the outcome was not what many of us had hoped for, we feel it is important to share a clear account of the discussion and the concerns raised, so residents can stay informed.
The reality is the decision to release the Gomm Valley site for development in the last High Wycombe Local plan was always going to be difficult to overcome.
We will need to be prepared for similar challenges in the New Year, when Bucks Council publishes its consultation on preferred development sites.