Residents have spoken out against recent Derby City Council plans to build houses on the Spondon greenbelt.
Spondon and Ockbrook were once small villages with ample greenery and public footpaths.
However, in recent years, there has been a shift away from this, with housing developments at nearby Royal Hill Road met with several initial objections but was approved on appeal.
Sandra, who has lived in the area since the 1950s, expressed her disappointment with Keepmoat Homes’ plans to build 250 homes on green belt land in Spondon.
Sandra reflects on what her hometown could become if these proposed changes go ahead.
She said: “They’re going to be an eye sore, ruining these lovely green spaces.”
The greenbelt itself is surrounded by Brian Clough Way, which separates both Derby and Nottingham.
This promises prospected future residents with good transport links.
Despite this, locals are concerned that if these plans go ahead, it could lead to a vast increase in traffic in the area.
Sandra added: “I don’t agree with it to be honest; it’s going to cause mayhem.”
However, not all residents are of the same opinion.
Linda, 68, who has lived in Ockbrook her whole life, welcomes these new changes to the area.
Local councils have been urged by the government to approve new build developments as the need for new homes has sharply risen in recent years.
Residents of Spondon believe that this money should instead be used to develop and improve the infrastructure that is already in place.
Linda expressed her concerns that new residents moving into these homes from other areas could put a strain on local services.
She said: “I’m worried that it could become harder for me to get an appointment at the doctors once all these new people move in.”
We approached Derby City Council for comment, but at the time of publication, we have not received any comments on the matter.
