Government inspector to have final say on new Shropshire homes

An appeal has been lodged looking to overturn Shropshire Council's decision to throw out plans to create five new homes in Stoke-upon-Tern, near Market Drayton.

In November the unitary authority ruled the outline proposal to create the homes off Warrant Road would lead to "sporadic and unsustainable" development on land defined as countryside for planning policy purposes.

But applicant Peter Briggs believes the proposed development represents an opportunity to provide a mix of housing types to help meet the needs of the community, and will contribute to meeting Shropshire's housing requirements.

A supporting statement on behalf of Mr Briggs said: "The site represents an appropriate form of sustainable development to be encouraged and supported.

"The site is already well screened and the proposed development would not impact on the character of the village.

"The proposal contributes to the social aspects of sustainability by helping to meet the housing shortage in Shropshire.

"The provision of additional houses will also support local businesses as future occupiers are likely to access and use local services and facilities, helping them to remain viable.

"Villages need to expand in a controlled manner in order to provide support for and maintain the level of services and facilities available in the village and surrounding area, benefiting both the existing and future residents and helping meet the needs of present and future generations."

A report by Shropshire Council case officer Richard Denison said the scheme would undermine the "rural rebalance" approach to development.

He said: "While there may be some economic and social benefits, these do not overcome the potential harm that would be caused to the environment.

"It is the opinion of officers that the proposed development will be visual within the landscape and extend the built form into the countryside."

Shropshire Council received two objections from residents living nearby who raised concerns about the loss of green belt land and an increase in traffic.

The parish council also objected to the scheme.

The outcome of the appeal is set to be decided by the planning inspector by written representation in the coming months.