Dear Resident,
A number of residents have raised concerns about the 2.8 acre plot of land east of Abbotswood Drive (between the estate boundary on the left and the Seven Hills Road on the right) as indicated below and I thought it would be helpful to provide a general update.
We are aware that this land (split into two plots of 1.4 acres or potentially being further sub-divided into 16 very small plots) is currently being offered for sale through Barney Auctioneers. In response we have taken the following action:
- Instructed the estate’s solicitors who are now fully engaged in a robust exchange with the auctioneer’s / vendor’s solicitor. We continue to maintain that the land does not benefit from a right of way over the estate’s roads. We have also made clear that given the lack of evidence to the contrary, it is disingenuous to advertise the land with pictures of the estate roads and a description of the benefits of living on the estate.
- Advised estate security to not allow anyone (other than existing residents) to Abbotswood Drive. We continue to deny potential purchasers access to the estate and have turned away three interested parties to date. We are also maintaining a periodic security presence at the entrance to Abbotswood Drive to make clear to that this is a private road. We will also put up a “private road” sign.
- Placed a temporary CCTV camera along the Abbotswood Drive boundary to give early notification of any attempted access to the land.
- Reviewed the fencing and hedging along the estate boundary to ensure there is a physical barrier between the estate boundary and this land, and we have supplemented the planting where required.
- Reviewed the land’s potential and irrespective of the current claims of rights of way, the land in question is in the Green Belt and as such would be difficult to develop.
This is an emerging issue and we will keep you informed as the situation unfolds. However, I trust you will find the actions we have taken to be reassuring. In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns, please let me know.
Thank You.
