Plans for 10 new houses in field in north Shropshire

Ten houses could be built in a field near a village in north Shropshire.

An outline application has been submitted for a scheme adjoining Wem Road in Harmer Hill. The plans also include alterations to the existing access, creation of open space, and ancillary works.

In the design, access and planning statement, Shaun Jones - who is representing the applicant - said the 2.42-acre site can easily accommodate 10 dwellings. They would include two-, three- and four-bedroom houses, while a bungalow is also envisaged.

Two of the homes would be affordable, said Mr Jones, representing 20 per cent of the development.

"The applicant prefers they are for shared ownership/discounted sale to help local people purchase a share in a home knowing a larger share can be purchased over time," he said.

"This avenue (staircasing) is considered to assist community cohesion."

Mr Jones added that there would be negligible adverse effects at all stages of the development on road uses.

"The layout, form and choice of materials for the development will reflect the best of the local vernacular and enable it to make a positive contribution to the local landscape character," said Mr Jones.

"The overall conclusion is that this development proposal complies with the applicable national, regional, and local planning policies related to the landscape.

"The proposed development at Harmer Hill could be carried out in a manner which is respectful of the local area’s landscape character and this part of the visual setting of the Harmer Hill settlement."

An area of public open space is proposed in the centre of the site. This includes trees and bushes and an open area suitable for recreation.

The field currently has two vehicular entrances: off the A528 Ellesmere Road and off the B5476 Wem Road.

Mr Jones said the latter would serve the site because of the good visibility splays without the need for vehicular access from the west. This is because access off Ellesmere Road could create a "rat run".

Meanwhile, a pedestrian access is incorporated from the west into the site using a new path leading to the open space and connection with the pavement.

"Adequate parking and turning will be provided on site, along with measures to promote sustainable travel are incorporated, including cycle storage for each plot and connectivity to existing footpaths, footways and bridleways," said Mr Jones.

"It is considered that the road network is suitable and satisfactory and has adequate capacity to receive and distribute the likely small increase in traffic figures from the proposal.

"Based on the analysis and assumptions provided, it is clear that the cumulative impacts of the development will not be severe and in all likelihood will be moderate at worst in terms of vehicular traffic to the development."

Anyone who wishes to view the plans (reference number 26/02256/OUT) and comment can do so via Shropshire Council's planning portal.

The consultation period ends on July 15.