Lib Dems Greenwashing Themselves as they push Shapley Heath
It’s election time. As usual at this time of year I take a look at the election leaflets that come through my door. Yesterday’s effort is a “Focus” from the Liberal Democrats.
I was staggered that they were attempting to greenwash themselves with the proposed “green grid”. They made no mention at all of Shapley Heath, the new town that will see up to 10,000 unnecessary houses dumped on our countryside.
Lib Dems Greenwashing Pamphlet
Lib Dems Greenwashing Themselves as they push Shapley Heath
They say:
Enjoying our Countryside and helping it flourish…
Many people have enjoyed our wonderful countryside during the pandemic, getting out for walks or cycle rides for exercise and fresh air…
Liberal Democrats on Hart Council are keen to make sure that these benefits can continue to be enjoyed…
It’s laughable. They are planning to build up to 10,000 houses right on top of one of the best green spaces in the District. We have taken advantage of the footpaths, country roads and Basingstoke Canal for walking and cycling and would hate to see this destroyed by totally unnecessary development.
We have previously estimated the environmental impact of Shapley Heath. The negative impacts include:
- 1,000,000 tonnes of CO2 emitted from construction
- 312,000 tonnes of CO2 per annum from the occupants
- Loss of natural carbon sinks in pasture and woodland
- Damage to Basingstoke Canal SSSI, Odiham Common SSSI, Ancient Woodland and heritage sites
Shapley Heath Climate Change Impact – Damage to nature
Note that Lib Dem Cabinet Member Cockarill, in charge of Place, has just signed a cooperation agreement with the developers.
Consider your vote carefully and don’t believe all you read in the election leaflets.