Plans for 140 homes and large commercial park are rejected
Many residents objected to the large scheme near to A5 and hotel
A PROPOSAL for 140 homes and a large commercial park in Burbage has been refused over concerns it would destroy a green corridor.
The plans to develop fields between the Sketchley Grange Hotel and the A5 had been earmarked for approval, despite more than 160 objections from residents.
But a late item on the agenda for the planning meeting at Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council recommended the scheme for refusal, as it was deemed to conflict with aspects of the newly published Burbage Neighbourhood Plan.
The item said: “It has been concluded that there would be moderate harm to the character of the area caused by the landscape and visual impact built development in this location.
“The proposal would extend development beyond the settlement boundary of Burbage and it is considered that the proposal would result in harm to the character and appearance of the area.
“Some environmental benefits would be provided such as additional planting through landscaping in the provision of open space.
“Additionally there would be some benefit for biodiversity associated with the reinforcement and new planting of hedgerow and trees around the site and the provision of SUDS which can be designed to include benefits to biodiversity, secured via condition.
“However the development would also result in the loss of an identified green corridor which runs east to west across the site.
“Green corridors are to be protected or enhanced in the Burbage Neighbourhood Plan, which recognises the value of these local green networks.”
Barwood Development Securities brought forward the 37-acre scheme, which it said would create 500 jobs.
The developer said in plans filed with the council: “The site is highly sustainable and exceptionally well located to offer access to existing jobs, services and facilities - including health, education, shops, leisure and open space.
“Connectivity onto the A5 via Sketchley Meadows Business Park presents a great opportunity to extend the strategic employment area.”
Burbage Parish Council previously objected to the plans over concerns about traffic pressure on the A5 and that it would spoil views of the countryside.
Councillor David Bill, executive member for planning at the council, said: “The decision to reject the application is in line with the Burbage Neighbourhood Plan which was confirmed by the parish council on Friday and which will now go forward to a referendum next year.
“The plan seeks to protect important green corridors such as part of the area affected by this application.
“This is not of course the end of the story as there will probably be an appeal but it will now give an opportunity to the wider public to have a say.”
Plans have also been filed to build 80 houses to the south of the Cardinal Drive estate in Burbage, and there is a proposal for 165 homes, off Lutterworth Road, near the M69.
More details about the Burbage Neighbourhood Plan are available on the borough council website.
Green corridors are to be protected or enhanced in the Burbage Neighbourhood Plan