Planners appeal refusal for 25 homes in north Shropshire

Last year Mr and Mrs Jones, on behalf of Shrewsbury business The Planning Group, applied for planning permission for the 25 homes on land at The Larches, Shawbury Road in Wem.

Councillors refused the plans on June 5 due to concerns the homes would appear visually out of character with the area.

They also said the plans would cause "harm to the character of the area" and would not be sustainable.

In an appeal report submitted to Shropshire Council, The Planning Group say: "The officer's report refers to the application for housing resulting in harm to the character of the area due to the detachment of the site from the main urban grain of the town but does not substantiate what demonstrable harm will actually occur. The site is not in a conservation area or adjacent to one, is not green belt or has any special protection.

"There is no detrimental impact on any protected species and existing trees will be supplemented with a substantial landscaping scheme.

"The officer's opinion is based solely on the opinion that the development would be out of character with the pattern and form of development in the area and such harm would outweigh the benefits of helping to address the current housing situation in Shropshire.

"Notwithstanding the current situation regarding housing supply, the site has been acknowledged by officers and should therefore be supported unless it results in such harm as to justify refusal and it is not considered that the council has substantiated such harm.

"The development will help to address the shortfall in housing land supply without resulting in any demonstrable harm to the amenities of neighbouring residents, the appearance of the area in general or the street scene.

"Furthermore where appropriate solar panels will be installed on individual properties and the proposed development will incorporate sustainable water management measures."