Controversial plans to build more than 50 homes in Shropshire town granted, despite opposition

The development, for land off Chester Road in Whitchurch, has angered residents who think it would be out of place amongst nearby homes.

But planning officer Tim Rogers has given the plans for 57 homes the green light saying it could provide a boost to the local housing market.

He said: "The proposal will be of significant benefit in terms of boosting the local housing supply, including the provision of affordable housing in what is a sustainable location where there is good access to services in a sizeable market town."

He added that the benefits of the scheme outweighed any potential harm caused by the build.

But the plans have been objected to by people around the area, as well as Whitchurch Town Council which did not support the development because it is out of the allocated SAMDev area, and "not in keeping with the area".

It is the second blow for locals after a proposal to build 14 homes nearby was given permission in July earlier this year.

And many have highlighted concerns over the problems increased traffic could cause.

John Ball, objecting on the Shropshire Council website, said: "My concern is the amount of additional traffic this development will produce entering and exiting within a 30 mph zone – on top of the 14 houses already given permission next to this site.

"While I appreciate the need for additional housing, surely consideration should be given to this concern and developments of this size be confined to more suitable areas with easy access to the by-pass surrounding our town."

Hollins Strategic Land, which put forward the development, has only revealed outline plans for the build – proposals many say are out of keeping with the current houses.

But Mr Rogers said that it could be designed with an appropriate layout "without adversely affecting" any properties in the area.

He added: "A safe means of access is available and the site is within a sustainable location close to the services and facilities within the town."

The town could be seeing more development in the future as applications continue to come in to Shropshire Council.

Developers Nigel Thorns Planning Consultancy is hoping to build a 70-bed care home alongside more than 30 homes on Whitchurch Road in Prees.

The plans have been recommended for refusal by the Prees Parish Council but are still awaiting a final decision by Shropshire Council.