PLANS to build up to 215 homes on an agricultural village field have been refused after a flurry of objections from residents.
Wychavon District Council has refused outline planning permission to build up to 215 homes on land off Stockwood Lane in Inkberrow.
In planning documents, Gleeson Land, the applicant, states: “The proposals for the site will deliver a distinctive character and a strong sense of place, unique to this site, informed importantly by its important qualities and retained features.
“Residential development has been limited to 6.14 hectares, providing 215 dwellings.
“This is to ensure the new development is appropriate in comparison to the size of the village of Inkberrow.
“Development has been limited to the eastern and central parts of the site, ensuring the scale of development is in keeping with the scale and character of the village and reads as a natural extension.”
The plans were refused due to several issues, including the land lying outside the development boundary of Inkberrow, and concerns about breeding pairs of skylarks and grey partridge.
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Many residents raised their concerns about the plans during the public consultation, including pressure on infrastructure and increased traffic on Stockwood Lane.
Rosemarie Crookson commented: “I object to the proposed development of new homes in Inkberrow village on the grounds that it would place an unsustainable strain on existing village infrastructure and services. Inkberrow is a small rural village with limited facilities that are already operating at or near capacity.
“Overall, the scale of this proposal is disproportionate to the size and capacity of Inkberrow village. Without clear, guaranteed, and timely improvements to local services and infrastructure, the development would negatively impact the quality of life of existing residents and future occupants.”
Louise Watts added: “While I understand the need for housing, this particular site is entirely unsuitable for a project of this scale. Living here for 11 years, I see daily how congested and precarious the junction near the primary school is. Adding hundreds of additional car movements every day to a point directly opposite the school gates is a risk the village shouldn’t have to take.
“Stockwood Lane is a designated ‘Quiet Lane’, used by families, walkers, and cyclists for exercise and fresh air. The road is physically incapable of supporting the traffic from 215 homes. There are sections near the top of the hill where the lane is so narrow that two cars can barely pass, let alone larger construction vehicles or delivery vans.”