40 affordable homes at Land Off Polmor Road, Crowlas

“1 This application seeks planning permission for a rural exception residential development of 40 affordable dwellings, on land to the north-east of Polmor Road at the north-eastern edge of Crowlas. All technical and policy matters have been robustly considered, though concerns remain locally in relation to drainage and highway access.”

“3 Otherwise, the proposed development would deliver a good quality scheme of 40 affordable dwellings in a sustainable and accessible edge-of-village location, making a significant contribution to the area’s housing needs. This is a significant material planning consideration which is afforded substantial weight in the planning balance.”

“4 It is concluded that the proposal accords with the Development Plan, when considered as a whole and there are no reasons to make a decision otherwise than in accordance with the Development Plan. The application is therefore recommended for approval, subject to conditions and the completion of a S106 Agreement securing the onsite affordable housing.”

“18 Lead Local Flood Authority: The Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA) has been reconsulted on this application. The LLFA has continuously raised concerns in relation to the surface water drainage proposals submitted to support the development of this site.”

“43 Much like the impact upon the strategic highway network, surface water drainage has been extensively considered between the Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA), National Highways and the Applicant.”

“Information Classification: PUBLIC engineering solution to infiltrate surface water into the development soakaway system. • These flows are accepted by National Highways in this case given that, under existing greenfield conditions, flood exceedance from the land currently discharges into the highway via the field access gate located on the shared boundary between the site and the highway.”

“5 2. Members welcomed the proposal for 40 affordable homes on a rural exception site, however, concerns were raised regarding the use of swales and soakaways within an active play area; 3. Reference was made to the late receipt of additional flooding information, which sought to address fundamental concerns; 4. It was commented that a 1–2 year delay to the proposal had reduced the scheme’s original aspirations, particularly due to viability constraints; 5.”

“Members noted that, despite the concerns outlined above, the scheme would deliver much-needed affordable housing and that National Highways had undertaken detailed assessment of the scheme and were satisfied; 10. It was commented that the proposal could potentially improve surface water drainage overall; 11. It was commented that the siting of swales within the play area was not ideal and hope was expressed that the area would be appropriately managed.”

“Arising from consideration of the report and debate it was moved by Councillor Ball, seconded by Councillor Long, and on a vote of 9 votes in favour, 0 against and 1 abstentions, it was:-”

“RESOLVED that delegated authority be granted to approve Application No. PA23/10181, subject to conditions or similar conditions and the completion of a S106 Legal Agreement securing the onsite affordable housing.”