Despite a dip in house prices of approximately 4% compared to last year,

progress is being made in the Abbey Fields and Kings Gate developments.

A pedestrian and cycle path has opened, connecting the Abbey Fields development to Tilsley Park, with plans to extend it through to the Kings Gate Development.

Infrastructure such as the A34 diamond interchange, schools, community centre, and playgrounds are not yet built.

But in response to the anticipated influx of residents from the 1100 new houses, the Long Furlong Medical Centre has submitted a planning application for three additional consulting rooms. Unfortunately, this comes at the cost of six car parking spaces, which may result in increased parking on local roads, upsetting local residents.

Without playgrounds for the new houses, younger residents have been making some colourful chalk designs in Hobby Green. Pat Hobby, a former Mayor as well as a primary school teacher, would be thrilled with their creative artwork.