Rothwell '˜cannot cope' with 700 more houses, say residents

The Rothwell North development by Persimmon Homes was given the go-ahead almost 10 years after plans were first announced.

The plans include the houses, a local centre, extension to Montsaye Academy’s playing fields and a number of access roads and pedestrian and cycle routes.

But residents say not enough thought has been given to the impact the development will have on other areas of the town, including health provision.

Pat Heald is Rothwell born and bred but says she cannot see how the town will cope.

She said: “We can’t get into the health centre as it is.

“Rothwell cannot cope with 700 more houses and about 2,000 more people.

“We are proud of our town and this will add about a third on to the population. It’s just far too much.

“There’s been about 150 posts about it on a local Rothwell Facebook page, everyone is up in arms.

“I believe that we need a new school, a new health centre and new roads before this should even be considered.

“There will be a new link road but where will traffic go while that is being built?”

Mrs Heald added that residents are considering holding meetings and setting up a petition again the development.

Other social media users voiced their concerns on the Northants Telegraph Facebook page.

Rebecca Sturgess said: “I am just sitting in Rothwell doctors waiting room and all I can hear is the receptionists telling callers there are no more appointments today for any doctors.

“It’s only been open 25 mins and the phones are ringing off the hook.

“How on earth does anyone think further overloading the surgery is a good idea?

John Lewis said: “Our infrastructure is already on meltdown.

“Invest in doctors, schools, roads and also the emergency services.”