Dozens of local residents have submitted formal objections to the municipality of Best regarding a proposed housing development named De Boomgaard. Neighbours of the site fear that the construction of 300 new homes will destroy a valued green space, reduce their privacy, and disrupt the area’s quiet.
The site, located in northeastern Best, currently consists of a green corridor with trees, fields, and shrubs. This area serves as a natural buffer between existing residential streets and the nearby motorway.
The developer, Mastade, plans to transform this land into a diverse residential estate. The proposal includes a mix of studios, apartments, terraced houses, and detached homes. These would be offered as a combination of social housing, mid-range rentals, and for-sale properties.
While such developments are often encouraged to address the national housing shortage, letters to the local council indicate that current residents are far from enthusiastic. Many argue that building hundreds of properties on a relatively small plot of land will damage their quality of life.
A primary concern among the objectors is the height and density of the new buildings. Residents claim that taller structures will loom over existing houses, blocking natural sunlight and overlooking private gardens. Some also worry that a lack of social connection in such a dense development could lead to litter, pest problems, and a general decline in neighbourhood safety.
Traffic safety is another major worry for the community. The plans would significantly increase the number of vehicles using local roads. Residents are particularly concerned about parking shortages and the potential danger to a nearby priority cycle route, where they believe the mix of cars and bicycles will lead to accidents.
NEWS BRAINPORT
