The development would have seen 265 houses built adjacent to Wesham Marsh, a designated Biological Heritage Site. John frequently goes beyond his role as secretary to take the lead on local planning issues. In this instance, he worked with the Fylde District planning officer to compile a comprehensive objection to the development, and advised the Wesham Action Group on policy and law. Further, he acted as a liaison with other interest groups and coordinated the opposition to the proposal. He single-handedly produced, funded and printed a Landscape Character Assessment for the area which set out in graphic detail the threats posed by the development. John then distributed this assessment to interested parties, including the Council Officers and the Development Control Committee. His efforts greatly contributed to the District County Council’s unanimous vote to refuse the planning application.