Plans to build as many as 200 homes on farmland in Nottinghamshire have been deferred over concerns with two of the proposed houses.
Mansfield District Council’s planning committee have asked developer Barratt David Wilson homes to come back with amended proposals over two plots on the development, at Three Thorn Hollows Farm, after concerns from residents.
The meeting, on Monday (May 9), heard the two plots could lead to the loss of privacy for residents living in existing homes to the north of the development, as well as potential “overshadowing”.
A resident speaking against the plans told councillors some of the homes could lead to an “overbearing impact” and loss of light, with the two plots proposed close to homes on nearby Farnsworth Avenue.
Councillors agreed to defer the proposals until a future meeting, with the developer asked to speak with objecting residents and find a solution to potential privacy and other adverse impacts.
The development, on Blidworth Lane in Rainworth, has already been granted outline planning permission, meaning the homes have been agreed upon in principle.
The original proposal could lead to 200 properties built on the farmland, with 10 per cent or 20 of the homes to be marketed as ‘affordable’.
However, some councillors asked whether the development could be reduced down to 198 properties so the two affecting plots do not impact existing houses.
This came after the developer offered to reduce the size of the plans to address concerns from impacted residents.
The meeting also heard the developer is willing to work with the residents to find a solution to the issue, with a spokesperson for the company addressing councillors in the chamber.
However, they also stated a belief the plans are an “acceptable development” and agreed with council officers’ recommendations for the plans to be approved.
They said: “We take the view that, through the proposed layout and scheme, this is an acceptable development. It’s an appropriate, satisfactory arrangement.
“The report’s conclusion is welcomed, its recommendation is supported and the conditions are endorsed.
“I echo the positive working arrangement with council officers, very much aimed at addressing concerns, finding solutions and overcoming problems.
“If members have lingering doubts in regards to the two plots, I’m content to obtain a lesser reserved matters approval for the remaining 198 plots as proposed.”
Councillor John Smart (Lab), who represents the Random Wood ward where the development would be based, spoke in the meeting to raise further concerns.
He said: “I would ask the committee to look at those two plots and consider those for another consultation with residents and the planning committee, to see if these matters can be resolved to all peoples’ satisfaction.”
Councillors debated whether to give the plans reserved matters permission for the full 200 homes, whether to reduce it down to 198 properties or for the deferral.
The committee was told it would not be able to reduce the homes during the meeting, with the previous outline planning permission granted for 200 homes.
The development was deferred for further consultation and conversation about the two plots, with conversations to be held between affected residents and the developer.
The deferral was approved by 10 votes to one.