PUBLIC consultation on the new M4 motorway junction has begun, with one of the proposed routes cutting across precious green belt land near Pucklechurch.

The plans have already proved controversial with the village’s residents, who are determined to see a rejection of the eastern route option, which would include the building of a link road and junction to the north and west of Pucklechurch.

Approval to remove the land from green belt protection can be obtained from the Secretary of State, if he deems it necessary.

The fundamental aim of green belt policy is to block urban sprawl by keeping land permanently open. If removed from this protective policy, not only could the land around Pucklechurch be used for the new M4 junction, it could also become vulnerable to residential development, to help address the region’s housing shortfall, perhaps becoming part of a very significant urban sprawl - a ‘Greater Emersons Green’.

Should the Secretary of State be called upon to make this decision, we hope they will recognise the value of retaining this special area within the green belt.