55-homes plan near hamlet is approved
OUTLINE plans to build homes on fields near a hamlet have been given the green light.
The 55 homes could extend the western edges of Barlestone, near Hinckley, towards the A447.
But villagers say these new homes fall into the parish of neighbouring Osbaston, a tiny settlement with less than 260 residents at the last census.
Leicestershire County Council applied for permission to develop an area of fields along Barton Road with the estate to include 22 homes that would be classed as “affordable”.
The approved outline scheme is just for the access, which will involve a new T-junction in Barton Road, with the precise layout of the complex still to be finalised.
Existing hedgerows and trees within the site will be mostly retained, with some additional planting to take place along the northern edge of the development, while a public open space would be created to the west of the site.
The 30mph speed limit on the road would be extended westwards, to include the entrance to the development.
Several residents wrote to Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, to oppose the scheme.
One common concern raised by locals is that the development is too large for the hamlet of Osbaston, with the development to increase by 50 per cent the number of houses in the small parish.
However, a document prepared for the planning committee who decided on the plans, said that the site is not defined as part of the Osbaston hamlet, as a development to the south of Barton Road, which is also within Osbaston parish, is considered an extension of Barlestone.
Neighbours have also raised concerns about the increase in traffic the new homes would bring to Barlestone, which is said to be “already congested”.
Others have said they fear the village’s facilities are already at capacity, including the primary school and doctor’s surgery.
The village is already set for a sizeable increase, as plans were
approved in May to build 99 “affordable” homes at Garden Farm, off Bagworth Road, at the other end of the village.
More than 150 residents wrote in to oppose the previous scheme.
Similar concerns were raised about an increase in traffic along narrow roads in the village, and also that the site access would involve removing mature hedgerow.
Other objectors said the works
would cause noise and disturbance for nearby residents.
Owl Homes is working with Midland Heart Housing Association to deliver the 99 homes, which will include 50 rented homes and 49 shared-ownership properties.
In addition, plans were filed in April for an estate of 50 homes, on greenfield land off Bagworth Road, with the scheme yet to be decided on.