Plans approved for up to 415 homes on edge of town

Land north of the A47 Normandy Way has been earmarked for the development

Initial plans for up to 415 homes on the edge of Hinckley have been given the green light.

Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council's planning committee approved an outline planning application for proposed homes on land north of the A47 Normandy Way on Tuesday.

The committee also granted the head of planning at the council the power to discuss with developer Richborough Estates the possibility of moving a roundabout included in the proposals.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) said the committee had deferred its decision on the plans on 12 August after concerns were raised about the proposed roundabout.

Councillor James Moore told the committee the proposed roundabout on the A47 was in a "potentially dangerous place" and said it would cause "distress" to local people.

However, according to the LDRS, an agent speaking on behalf of the developer previously said its location had been "carefully assessed" and a report said it would be "unfeasible" to move the proposed roundabout.

Councillor Stuart Bray, leader of the borough council, added he would "love" to give a "long speech" on why the committee should refuse the plans but added the council does not stand a "cat in hell's chance" of stopping it at an appeal.

A government inspector previously granted applicant Richborough Estates planning permission on appeal in January 2024 to build up to 475 homes on an adjacent site.

The developer had previously said the two developments would be separated by a large park.

There would also be other public green spaces, including play areas for children, planning documents said.

According to the LDRS, 83 of the homes would be classed as affordable housing, and financial contributions of more than £5m are being requested from the developer for local facilities and services if the scheme is approved.

Documents submitted by the applicant added the proposed site was in a "sustainable location".

Additional reporting by Julia Breens, Local Democracy Reporter.