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Leicestershire villagers fear urban absorption with Isley Woodhouse plans

Update Are villages losing their identity?Residents in the quiet village of Diseworth are on the brink of change. With plans for the new town of Isley Woodhouse threatening their way of life, many are concerned about being swallowed by urban development. The proposal includes 4,250 new homes and promises to significantly change the landscape to the southwest of East Midlands Airport. Right now, this village has charm—an essence tied to its small-community feel. But soon, everything could be different.What’s at stake with Isley Woodhouse?Jim Snee, part of the local campaign group Protect Diseworth, is deeply worried. He fears the development will not just be a new housing project; it’s a signal of a greater trend where charming villages like Diseworth could be enveloped by industrial expansion. His vivid concern paints a picture of what might happen: “We are going to become totally absorbed into an industrial and urban landscape.” The challenge is not just the new homes, but the infrastructure—roads that won’t handle the expected influx of traffic from new residents.Community voices echoing concernsMany locals are stepping forward to express their apprehensions. Janet Moorhouse voices a sentiment shared by others: why is so much being placed in one area? “I can understand why the area has been chosen due to its proximity to the motorways,” she points out, but the size of the project feels overwhelming.What the developers sayThe team behind Isley Woodhouse claims community engagement has guided their plans, assuring that new schools, leisure facilities, and shops will meet local needs. Jo Neville, a representative from Harworth Group, expresses optimism for the project, claiming it reflects community priorities. But does it really?Parking problems to come?With a rise in the number of homes, the village’s infrastructure will be pressured beyond its means. Mr. Snee articulates the alarming reality: thousands of vehicles will flock daily, overwhelming roads that presently struggle with traffic. This represents a serious risk to both safety and quality of life in the village.Unpleasant implications for the futureThe increasing urbanization reflects a broader trend across the country—one that sees more and more rural communities at risk of losing their character. The pressures of growth might lead to the erosion of what makes these places special. Alongside housing development, plans for a logistics park east of Diseworth amplify these fears. Big developments, such as these, often bring high traffic volumes that impact daily living.Community resilience is keyDespite the looming changes, the determination among residents is palpable. Groups like Protect Diseworth are rallying the community to voice their concerns. Their efforts highlight a broader call to engage in the planning process actively, taking control of the narrative for their beloved village and ensuring that growth does not undermine local identity.What does a new town mean for you?This isn't just a local issue; it resonates with anyone living in communities facing similar threats. When large-scale projects emerge, they impact not just the local economy but the unique fabric of the community. How cities grow matters because it affects our quality of life. The essence of living in a place like Diseworth is about that sense of belonging, which could be lost amid rapid changes.Time to actResidents are urged to engage. Speak at local council meetings. Share your thoughts with neighbors. This is a chance to influence how Isley Woodhouse and other projects develop. It’s about maintaining community spirit in the face of inevitable change. As opportunities arise to voice concerns, locals have a responsibility to ensure that development reflects their priorities, not simply those of large developers.