Statement 2nd June

On 2nd June with Hatchfield Farm planning application rejected, Rachel Hood, Chair, Save Historic Newmarket, said:

“We are relieved and delighted that the Hatchfield Farm planning application has been rejected by Forest Heath District Councillors.  We would like to offer our deepest thanks to those Councillors who have worked tirelessly to protect Newmarket and, at times, endure opprobrium and criticism from FHDC officers for their work on our behalf.

We have campaigned long and hard along with many others for this result to protect unique, historic Newmarket and preserve its status as the world’s racing HQ. Without the brave and unwavering support of Tattersalls, Darley, Godolphin, the Jockey Club and many other benefactors this simply would not have been possible. We would also like to thank our new M.P. Matt Hancock for all he has done to live up to his campaign promise to Save Historic Newmarket from destruction. He has fulfilled his campaign promise to the residents of Newmarket and we are very grateful.

“Lord Derby has said that the only reason he is doing this is to help Newmarket and help the Council meet Government housing targets.  The people of Newmarket do not want or need such a major housing and commercial development. These are the old Labour Government’s targets he is referring to. Our new Government has confirmed that these targets are no longer relevant with the abolition of the Regional Spatial Strategy which set them. We hope with this decision from the Council, Lord Derby will now accept that Newmarket has rejected his proposed development at Hatchfield Farm.”