217 homes and self-build plots at Woodfen Road, Littleport

What was proposed

The application sought approval of appearance, landscaping, layout and scale for 197 homes and 20 self-build plots in Phase 2.

“Reserved Matters application seeking approval of appearance, landscaping, layout and scale for 197 dwellings (Use Class C3) and 20 self-build unit plots pursuant to hybrid planning permission To view all of the public access documents relating to this application please use the following web address or scan the QR code: http://pa.eastcambs.gov.uk/online- applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=T5BBYRGGLD800”

“This application relates to the details for reserved matters for Phase 2, consisting of 197 dwellings and 20 self-build dwellings. The reserved matters of appearance, landscaping, layout and scale are under consideration as part of this application. The matter of access has been approved as part of the previous application.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The site lies between the A10 and Woodfen Road, with businesses nearby, homes to the north-east, and a primary school opposite.

“The application site is located between the A10 (located to the west) and Woodfen Road (located to the east). The site’s primary entrance is onto the A10, and access to Phase 2 is given via the spine road and new roundabout approved as part of the Phase 1 development under application reference 20/01238/FUM. The twenty self- build plots would be served via minor road/driveways leading directly from Woodfen Road.”

“To the north and south of the site are business/industrial sites. There are residential properties immediately adjacent to the north-east corner of the site located on Woodfen Road. Further east of the site opposite Woodfen Road is the Littleport Community Primary School and sport field. Open countryside extends beyond the A10 to west with a number of commercial/industrials developments located on the A1101 further to the north.”

Officer report

Consultation and objections

Most consultees raised no objection, while the town council, a ward councillor and neighbours raised concerns about highways, access, construction, shading and ecology.

“No objection, however, the Town Council reiterate concerns regarding highways safety in the proximity of the Saxon Business Park, suggesting mitigations. The Town Council seeks clarification on permeability through the site, particularly number of access points and whether the development would include a route through via Woodfen Road. The Town Council also enquires about Enforcement Officer attending the site.”

“Cllr Martin Goodearl raised concerns about access to the 20 self-build plots via Woodfen Road during construction, noting Parsons Lane is unsuitable for this type of traffic. This and access during occupation would be against conditions imposed to the development, with access restricted to the A10 only.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The applicant’s senior planner supported approval, describing the homes, affordable housing, design, landscaping and sustainability measures before answering members’ questions.

Members’ discussion

Members discussed Woodfen Road safety, bus-stop funding, play areas, dust control, affordable homes and access for self-build plots.

“Yole Medeiros, Major Projects Officer, stated that the speed limit on Woodfen Road was not part of this application and would require a Section 278 agreement. The Section 106 Agreement would ensure play equipment in phase 1 and phase 2, which would include different play equipment for different ages. There were four access points to self-build homes, which had been agreed with the outline planning permission.”

“In reply to Cllr Christine Ambrose Smith, the Strategic Planning and Development Management Manager stated that the internal furnishing of the affordable homes was not a matter for the Committee but these houses would be built to the same standards as the market homes. The Major Projects Officer added that the layout of the affordable homes would meet the same national standards.”

Minutes

The vote

A proposal to approve the application was seconded and unanimously agreed by the committee.

“Cllr Martin Goodearl stated that the proposed calming measures on Woodfen Road had allayed his fears regarding road safety. He proposed that the Committee agree the application in line with the officer’s recommendation. Cllr Christine Ambrose Smith seconded this proposal.”

“Cllr Martin Goodearl proposed and Cllr Christine Ambrose Smith seconded that the application be approved, with the conditions listed above. A vote was taken and it was unanimously agreed…”

Minutes