Backing for 250 homes despite objections

The new homes would be built on fields to the north of the A52

Planning officers have recommended a housing development in Lincolnshire for approval.

As many as 250 homes could be built on land off the A52 Somerby Hill/Bridge End Road in Grantham.

The application, by developer Bloor Homes, will see 30% of houses it builds on this site meet affordable housing criteria.

Despite objections by parties including Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust and Londonthorpe and Harrowby Without Parish Council, the application is expected to be approved at South Kesteven District Council’s planning committee on Thursday 16 May, according to Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Of the 75 homes that will meet the affordable housing quota - 45 will be rented properties, 10 shared ownership and a further 20 for first-time buyers.

It was referred to the planning committee due to the requirement of Section 106 agreements, which includes financial contributions for amenities in the area. This could include new or improved roads or funds to help improve local healthcare services.

The plans by Bloor Homes include 75 affordable properties

Councillor Charmaine Morgan, who represents Grantham St Vincent’s ward, called the development in for further inspection amid concerns around impact on highways, biodiversity and heritage, as well as the proposed loss of open, agricultural land.

During assessments of the application, the council's planning officer said the proposal “represents a significant public benefit which should be attributed significant weight”.

The proposal also includes up to three children’s play areas across the site, with 2.5 hectares (6.1 acres) of public open space being proposed in total.

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