THOUSANDS of copies of town localism group Haslemere Vision’s housing consultation are landing on doormats this week and anyone with views on future development is urged to respond.

The group’s population projections suggest between 700 and 1,200 new homes need to be built across Haslemere, Shottermill, Critchmere, Beacon Hill, Hindhead and Grayswood over the next 16 years, and at least 200 should be low-cost affordable houses for rent or shared ownership.

“Proximity to the rail network is key and the cry of sustainability may justify a re-appraisal of hitherto sacrosanct areas,” Haslemere Vision chairman Stewart Brown said. “But how long can the special low-density areas be defended against the clamour for more housing in central areas?

“At what point is the unique character of the town considered to be worth sacrificing in the interests of meeting housing need?

“While this debate may be uncomfortable, for many it is unarguable that increases in population have to be housed somewhere.

“Downsizers and young people need new places to settle – preferably centrally if we are to alleviate pressure on our roads and encourage foot traffic in retail areas. It may be tempting to some to cram housing into as little space as possible to avoid taking any more of our precious green spaces, but we must also consider quality of life for those who will live in them.

“There is little attraction in flats with tiny rooms, lots of people and inadequate parking provision.

“If we are to provide housing to meet demand without detriment to the area, new ideas should be considered.

“Mandatory underground parking and/or community consultations on larger developments, higher build standards and Community Land Trusts are just some of things that the community can look at.”

County councillor Nikki Barton said: “Housing is such a critical challenge for Haslemere over the next 16 years.

“Some really tough decision have to be made because we don’t have many unprotected sites. Haslemere Vision have done an amazing job drawing up this document and it’s an opportunity for residents to have a say in the future of their town.”

To download a copy online, visit haslemerevision.org.uk.