Contacts

Q Why are you against the Woolley Valley being farmed?
A We are not against Woolley Valley being farmed. The rest of the Valley is being farmed appropriately as it has been farmed for centuries. This is land that has been grazed by sheep and cattle for centuries, and we actively support sustainable grazing of the land in Woolley Valley.  Many local farmers are supporters of the Save Woolley Valley Action Group and we fear that intensive poultry farming will destroy these ancient meadows.

 
Q  BANES have said publicly that the Chicken sheds don’t need planning permission?
A  Planning Authorities in other parts of the country have not ruled in the same way. Our legal team is convinced that chicken sheds of this size and density do require planning consent. The special intent of the Article 4 Direction (that disallows normally permitted development)  is clearly not being observed. Hence our approach to the High Court.
 
Q Are you concerned about the traffic this enterprise will generate? 
A  Yes and not just in Woolley Lane. The Lane is used by walkers, joggers, cyclists and horse riders. Heavy lorries associated with intensive farming e.g. deliveries of feedstuff, egg production etc will make some of these pastimes hazardous. The Lane is single track with limited passing places. The Highways authority has stated it cannot take increased traffic safely.

More worrying is the fact that lorries and other vehicles accessing the site must come through the densely populated area of Larkhall. In Larkhall there are 3 schools and a pre-school playgroup centre.

Q What can I do to help your cause?

A We have a substantial fighting fund but a long legal battle will mean we may need more, so please donate via the PayPal button on the website or send donations to SWVAG Ltd. 1 High Street, Woolley, Bath, BA1 8AR. If you have time or expertise to give then please contact us at  skills@savewooleyvalley.co.uk 

Q Is this not just local residents complaining about Development in their back yard?

A No. Woolley Valley is an amenity area highly valued by non-residents and national and local conservation bodies. Look at the petition on our website if you need persuading. We have local, regional, national and even international support for our campaign.

What really has infuriated local residents is that a Development Company can ignore FIVE refused planning applications and continue to develop this land with the clear long-term intention of building houses on this site.

Q Now that BANES have issued Stop and Enforcement notices does that mean Woolley Valley has been saved?

 A No, far from it.

The developers, Golden Valley Paddocks Ltd., have a right of appeal against the action taken by BANES. Also BANES are of the opinion that the chicken sheds can remain. We believe otherwise and our campaign most definitely continues, even intensifies.

Q What is SWVAG?

A SWVAG stands for Save Woolley Valley Action Group and comprises local Woolley residents who have joined together to form a Limited Company which has the following objectives:

- to preserve the Swainswick/Woolley Valley in the Cotswold National Park from unauthorised development in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

- to protect the local environment, namely wildlife, fauna, flora, and geology from irreversible damage.

- to preserve the Swainswick/Woolley Valley for the enjoyment of all those who respect the countryside.

- to protect the visual impact of the Swainswick/Woolley Valley as a major gateway to Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage City.

Q Why do you need a Limited Company?

A We have formed a Company Limited by Guarantee. This is a recognised way of structuring a 'not for profit' organisation that requires a legal structure behind it to collect funds and be legally represented. A Limited Company also provides a degree of protection for the directors, as long as they act with due care and diligence.

Q Who are the shareholders?

A Such companies do not have shareholders but instead have Members who guarantee to contribute a nominal amount in the event of the company being wound up. There are 5 Members who are all Woolley residents. They are also the directors.

Q What are the members’ motivation?

A The Members objectives are entirely in keeping with those stated above for SWVAG Limited. The Members have volunteered their time and seek no personal gain.