Milkwall: 47-home development plans to be discussed

Forest of Dean District Council is due to consider a planning application to develop land off Ellwood Road in Milkwall near Coleford

Plans to build 47 homes, which are opposed by more than 70 villagers, will soon be up for debate.

Forest of Dean District Council will consider a planning application to develop land off Ellwood Road in Milkwall near Coleford.

The proposals by K & D James & Martin cover 1.59 hectares and include eight one-bed flats and 16 two-bed houses.

However, locals have raised concerns over road safety and the site being unsuitable for its rural location.

If approved, the site will also include 17 three-bed and six four-bed homes.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, a lack of meaningful public transport and the visibility at the site's entrance onto Ellwood Road, was also brought up by objectors.

Other concerns include a lack of infrastructure and facilities in the area, such as schools not able to accept new pupils and dentists and doctors being already overstretched.

The site will mainly be arranged as detached or semi-detached properties, with four terraced rows.

The proposals by K & D James & Martin cover 1.59 hectares and include eight one bed flats and 16 two bed houses

Coleford Town Council recognises the site is allocated for housing in its neighbourhood development plan but raised concerns over the lack of affordable housing, impact on bats and said it wants the 30mph zone extended.

Planning officers have recommended approving the scheme as they believe on balance it will not cause harm to the character and appearance, living conditions, biodiversity and highway safety of the surrounding area than already exists.

They said extensive negotiations have taken place to address issues raised by consultees and residents and in particular to secure six affordable homes and mitigate harm to biodiversity.

The development would also bring economic benefits during construction, such as jobs, they added.

Councillors will decide the proposals at the development management committee meeting on 9 April.