495 homes plan backed for former Maxell factory site in Telford

Officers are recommending developers should be granted approval in principle to build on the former Maxell factory site next to Apley Woods, despite objections from residents.

Telford & Wrekin Council's planning committee deferred a decision on plans to build 540 homes in June and a scaled down development of 495 properties will come back before them at a meeting on Wednesday night .

Developer J-Ross Developments, the company behind the bid, said as well as scaling down the plans they have also moved it further away from the woods to create more of a "green buffer".

If permission is granted the developers have agreed to pay about £2 million in the form of a section 106 agreement to fund improvements to schools in the area and the local transport network, including a scheme at Shawbirch roundabout.

The developer also says the future of a proposed new factory development on the site for Elements Europe, which could see up to 120 new jobs created in the town, hinges on approval being granted for the homes.

But nearly 50 people have submitted written objections to the development.

They say it should be refused because there are still too many homes proposed, it would result in a loss of green space, and the road network would not be able to cope.

Ward councillor Karen Blundell, speaking on behalf of residents, said: "As the borough councillor for Apley Castle I continue to object to this planning application on behalf of residents.

"The council has now established that it has well in excess of the required five-year housing land supply. This application is excessive.

"One third of the site is currently greenfield, there is no necessity to build on it at this time.

"Residents will bear the burden if we allow the site to be developed simply for development sake.

"We endure daily battles with the overstretched roads and residents inform me they have difficulty securing doctor's appointments.

"There is no justification to grant this application when the negative impact will outweigh any financial gains."

But officers are recommending outline planning permission should be granted, with delegated powers given to approve full planning permission behind closed doors in the future.

A report due to go before the planning committee says:

"It will deliver significant essential infrastructure funding, deliver new publicly accessible open space and leisure and recreational facilities and provide for highway improvements."

A final decision will be made by planners at the meeting on Wednesday, at The Whitehouse Hotel from 6pm. The public are welcome.