Homes plan set for approval despite objections

Objections include concerns over schools, doctors and other infrastructure in Blidworth already being overstretched

A scheme which would see 62 homes built in a Nottinghamshire village is set to be approved, despite objections from residents.

The plans, submitted by Tune Nottingham One Limited & Richard Gretton Thomas, involve a development on land off Dale Lane in Blidworth, near Mansfield.

It would comprise one to three bedroom homes and two bungalows, with 70% of the houses priced to be affordable, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).

The application has attracted 69 comments including concerns from residents over the existing services already being overstretched.

'Undesirable small town'

The original plans for 73 houses have been scaled down several times to address concerns about overcrowding.

Blidworth resident Ashton Sykes said: “The infrastructure for more housing is not available – schools and doctors are already oversubscribed, even more so following several large developments in Rainworth.”

Amy-Rose Gardner wrote: “Local amenities are not just bursting at the seams, they’ve actually burst.

“Blidworth used to be a desirable village. It is now turning into an undesirable small town. Just stop – refuse the application and please listen to us as a community.”

Lauren Barker said: “There is already flooding along Dale Lane in torrential rain, which will only get worse if land is built on.”

A final decision will be made by councillors at Newark and Sherwood District Council on Thursday

Blidworth Parish Council has also objected, saying the houses are spaced tightly together and they would have a negative visual impact on the landscape.

“Local health practices are working at capacity and this scheme would lead to pressure upon services," the council report said.

“A financial contribution of £982 per dwelling is sought towards enhancing infrastructure at the three closest local practices – Abbey Medical Group, Rainworth Health Centre [and] Hill View Surgery.”

A report on the plan, prepared by Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “There is no doubt from the level of neighbour representations that this site is highly contentious in the local community.”

Trees will be planted to the south and east to screen the new buildings from the open countryside, and the plans also include open space and a children’s play area.

Planning officers have recommended the development is approved, with a final decision due to be made on Thursday.

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