A report has recommended a new housing development in Alrewas is given the green light.
Land north of Dark Lane has been earmarked for 121 new properties.
But Alrewas Parish Council had been among those opposing the scheme, claiming the site had not been allocated for a residential development.
It also highlighted a previous scheme which was rejected due to the impact of the new homes on local traffic.
There were also 194 letters from local residents against the development.
But a report from a Lichfield District Council officer says their are no grounds to refuse the scheme.
“I note the significant concerns of residents in respect of highway safety and the existing problems already encountered in Alrewas,” the report said. “But as Staffordshire County Council and Highways England have raised no objections, I am of the view that a reason for refusal
on this ground could not be justified.”
There had also been concerns about the impact of the new development on local schools.
But the report added: “A number of objections have been received in respect of the services within
the village such as schools.
“I have had regard to these comments and I advise that with respect to schools, the applicant will be required to enter into a legal agreement and provide a financial contribution towards primary, secondary and sixth form education.
“It is my view that the proposal is in a sustainable location adjacent to an existing settlement,
The final decision on the development will be made at a meeting of Lichfield District Council’s planning committee on Monday (June 22).
Doesn’t Cllr Margaret Stanhope live in Dark lane? Could this be why the Planning Committee were so willing to reject the advice of its planners and refuse permission? With a planning inspector due to hear an appeal on 7/July, the latest report makes it clear that the Council should expect to lose. Appeal costs could top £100K and are avoidable if the Planning Committee accepts reality.
“But as Staffordshire County Council and Highways England have raised no objections, I am of the view that a reason for refusal
on this ground could not be justified.”
Other than objections from the people who actually live there, in that the SCC or Highways Agency do not.
Pumping money into the schools as some sort of venal appeasement doesn’t take a view on the long term impact of such a development.
But I guess as long as council tax receipts keep growing, who cares?