Contentious plans to build up to 55 new homes in Long Clawson are recommended for approval despite strong local opposition

Proposals to build up to 55 new homes in Long Clawson have been recommended for approval despite strong local opposition.
PlanningPlanning
Planning

Davidsons Developments has submitted an outline planning application to build the homes, along with the provision of public open space, landscaping and surface water drainage, on land off Sand Pit Lane. Vehicular and pedestrian access would be from a new junction on Sand Pit Lane.

At the time of going to press Melton Council had received more than 200 letters of objection to the proposals.

Clawson, Hose and Harby Parish Council, which has unanimously objected to this application ‘because of the negative and detrimental impact on the existing village’, had also itself received more than 30 letters of objection.

The range of objections raised include the proposed development being out of character with the village, being too large and in the wrong place, adverse impact upon the conservation area, the development being unsustainable, concerns about traffic and parking, the inadequacy of the local road network and flooding fears.

The applicants say their proposals ‘represent sustainable development’ arguing that ‘any adverse impacts do not significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits that would result in granting planning permission in this case’.

They feel that on the basis of Melton Council ‘falling well short of a five-year land supply’ planning permission should be granted. Davidsons claim their proposals ‘represent sustainable development’, adding that impacts of the development ‘can be satisfactorily mitigated’.

The Highways Authority hasn’t made any objection, subject to conditions and developer contributions.

Melton Council’s planning committee will meet on Thursday to determine the application. A council planning officer has recommended for the committee to grant permission, subject to conditions.

The officer’s report to the committee says: “The borough is deficient in terms of housing land supply more generally and this would be partly addressed by

the application. This application presents some affordable housing that helps to meet identified local needs.

“Long Clawson is considered to be a sustainable location. There are a number of other positive benefits of the scheme which include developer contributions to mitigate impacts upon local services. There are also benefits arising from the proposed highways improvements.

“The balancing issues – development of a greenfield site, impact upon landscape, heritage assets and drainage and traffic generation - are considered to be of limited harm.

“The less than substantial harm to heritage assets must be balanced against the significant social and economic benefits.”

More to follow.