Nine mixed-tenure homes at Land at Blackwell Lane, Melbourne

What was proposed

The scheme proposed nine homes, including five affordable homes and four market homes, with access works, parking, landscaping and drainage.

“Proposal: The erection of three bungalows and six dwelling houses that are a mixture of affordable and market value housing, together with access improvements, car parking and landscaping at Land at Blackwell Lane, Melbourne, DE73 8JG Ward: Melbourne Reason for committee determination This item is presented to the Committee at the discretion of the Head of Planning due to the finely balanced nature of the proposals.”

“Site Description The site is located to the east of Melbourne, adjacent to but not within the defined settlement boundaries. The site is currently used for agricultural purposes and has a barn on-site that will be removed to facilitate the development. The site is bordered by residential dwellings to the south and west, with allotments to the north and an events car parking unit to the east.”

Officer report

Consultees and public comments

Several consultees raised no objection subject to safeguards, while the civic society and residents objected on heritage, countryside, infrastructure, highways and environmental grounds.

“County Highway- No objection to the proposals, subject to conditions. Initial concerns were raised about the visibility splays for access, but these have been resolved. Melbourne Parish Council No comment Melbourne Civic Society - Objects to this proposed development, arguing it would harm the character and setting of the Melbourne Conservation Area, particularly the historic rural-to-settlement transition along Blackwell Lane.”

“Two consultation responses have been received as part of this application, with the overarching conclusion being no objection, provided that the specific ecological enhancement and mitigation measures are secured via conditions and an S106. Historic England No objection Detailed walkover undertaken in May 2026 concluding that there would be some harm to significance.”

Officer report

Who spoke at the meeting

An objector, the applicant’s agent and the local ward member addressed the committee; the ward member noted concerns about erosion of Melbourne’s rural setting.

Members’ concerns

Members discussed wildlife loss, the proposal’s position outside the settlement boundary and whether it formed part of the Local Plan.

“Members considered the Application and raised concerns regarding the loss of wildlife, that it was not part of the Local Plan and outside the settlement boundary.”

“The Head of Planning advised the Committee that the Local Plan allowed the development of up to 25 properties in an area when the majority are affordable homes that meet the National Planning Policy Framework definition. It was noted that the Application did meet local need.”

Minutes

The committee decision

The committee resolved to approve planning permission in accordance with the recommendation.

“That planning permission be approved as per the recommendations in the report of the Head of Planning…”

Minutes