This petition is to register a concern against the planning application for over 300 people to be located in 80 new homes, apartments and an old peoples home to be constructed on an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This is to be the site of CABI’s headquarters South of Wallingford and to the East of the river, funded by the leased developer’s new homes. A worse position for a new development would be difficult to find; due to the distance from any amenities, difficult road access and associated security issues with vulnerable elderly residents. This new estate will adversely affect a rural and very beautiful section of a much-loved 30 minute circular walk enjoyed regularly by a great number of Wallingford and Crowmarsh residents alike. The walk, diverse and restorative, encompasses Wallingford’s two bridges, the conservation area of the old town West of the river and the countryside, Newnham Church and the flood meadows to the East. Houses will be built adjacent to the Eastern boundary of the picturesque and semi-wild path; they will extend the whole length of this path which links Nosworthy Way (OX10 8DE) to Newnham Church (OX10 8BW) Trees are to be felled and this largely wild and tranquil area will be irrevocably urbanised destroying much of the habitat currently enjoyed by bats and Little Owls. The distant views eastward towards the Old Icknield Way will be obliterated. I would urge local residents to make their opinions known, they can register their concern at www.ipetition.com/petition/newnhamfootpath and/or contact SODC directly. Comments must be received by 22nd May.

**edit: the comments and petition signatures must be received by the 6th June 2012 to allow inclusion in the South Oxfordshire council consultation, thank you for all your support!**

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