Newport homes plan submitted

Controversial plans for more than 200 homes, new allotments and a new children's play area in Newport have been lodged by developers.

The proposals would see 215 homes built on land north of Audley Avenue in the town alongside public open space.

The plans are part of a wider development across the town which could see about 900 homes, a petrol station and a supermarket built in Audley Avenue and either side of Station Road.

Some residents and councillors have raised strong objections to the plans, claiming they would shatter the fragile local economy.

Developers St Modwen has lodged the proposals for 215 homes with Telford & Wrekin Council, which will consider the application.

St Modwen bosses say there will also be the potential for improvements to the Shukers Fields sports site including a refurbishment of the pavilion, drainage work to the pitches and an extension to the car park.

Mike Timmins, senior planning surveyor for St Modwen, added a new children's play area would be provided and an extensive network of new footpaths will also be created if the proposals are approved.

He said: "This Audley Avenue site provides an excellent opportunity for an exciting new residential development which integrates well with Newport."

He added: "The site currently has no overriding environmental or physical constraints and provides the opportunity to establish a sustainable new residential development which is both physically and visually well contained.

"The site was originally identified as being suitable for development in the September 2005 draft Allocations Document for approximately 270 dwellings.

"Based on the technical work and consultation we have since undertaken for this application we are content that the proposals we have submitted are compliant with the adopted Core Strategy for the area."

If the application is approved by council bosses St Modwen expects work to begin on site next summer.

St Modwen and partner Davidsons Developments say the whole redevelopment could create 500 jobs and bring investment into Newport.