Appeal lodged over 155-home development in village

The new estate could be built off Oak Road in Littlethorpe if the appeal is successful

A developer has launched an appeal against a council's decision to refuse plans for a 155-home development in Littlethorpe.

Gladman Developments Ltd has lodged an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate after Blaby District Council turned down proposals in February for the housing scheme on land off Oak Road.

A decision notice issued by the council labelled the plans an "unwarranted intrusion of urban development" and said they would cause "demonstrable harm" to the character of the village.

However, appeal documents said the proposed scheme would make a "valuable contribution to the vitality" of Littlethorpe.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) said councillors refused an outline planning application, which sought to secure permission in principle to build the homes, even though planning officers recommended approval.

If approved, the proposed development would include 116 houses at market price and 39 properties classed as affordable.

In a letter seen by the LDRS, Blaby District Council said the appeal would be heard by the Planning Inspectorate on 16 September and is scheduled to last four days.