200 dwellings with open space at Land West Of Tothby Close, Alford

What was proposed

The application sought outline permission for up to 200 homes, public open space, landscaping, sustainable drainage and associated infrastructure, with access considered.

“PROPOSAL: Outline planning application (with all matters reserved except for means of access) for the erection of up to 200 dwellings, with public open space, landscaping, sustainable drainage system (SuDs) and associated infrastructure.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The agricultural site lies on Alford’s north-west edge, covers about 9.8 hectares, and adjoins homes, countryside, trees, hedges and a narrow lane.

“The application site lies to the north-west edge of Alford and on the southern side of Tothby Lane approximately 1km from Alford town centre (as the crow flies). The site is agricultural in use and comprises an area of about 9.8 hectares. It is within Flood Zone 1 - Low Risk. The boundary of the Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape is the south-west being the other side Haugh Lane in Rigsby.”

Officer report

Why officers supported it

Officers considered Alford sustainable, found the development’s effects manageable, and identified housing, affordable homes and open space as benefits.

“As required by advice in the NPPF, significant weight is attached to good design as a key aspect of sustainable development, and it is therefore considered that such weight can be given to the 'framework' design aspects of the proposed development. SP10 of the Council's Local Plan relates to the design of new development.”

“It is concluded that whilst the development will have a visual impact on the character of the area this will minimise over time and would not be significantly harmful. This should be balanced against the benefits of providing housing for the district in meeting its targets and the provision of 30% affordable housing.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The applicant spoke in support, and a representative of Alford Town Council addressed the committee.

What members discussed

Members discussed local housing demand, local connections, the play area, NHS contributions, traffic and flood-risk mitigation.

“- A Member queried whether there was a high demand for housing in Alford. [name withheld] confirmed that there was and requested that preference for the housing was given to those with a local connection to Alford.”

“- Concerns were raised about traffic impact and flood risk. The Principal Planning Officer advised that assessments had been undertaken, and mitigation measures proposed.”

Minutes

The committee vote

The application was approved in line with the officer recommendation, with conditions and Section 106 obligations, by 11 votes to none, with one abstention.

“Following which, the application was Proposed and Seconded for approval in line with officer recommendation.”

“Upon being put to the vote, the proposal for approval in line with officer recommendation subject to conditions and Section 106 obligations was carried.”

Minutes