Planners back bid for 41 homes

PLANS for 41 new homes on agricultural land have moved a step closer after winning backing from planning officers.

Developments South West Limited applied to Rossendale council for outline planning permission for residential development of land with all matters reserved save for access, for up to 41 dwellings at land north Of Chapel Villas, Todmorden Road, Bacup.

The 1.8 hectare site is adjacent to open countryside, and following concerns from the council the applicant reduced the proposal from an initial bid for up to 63 houses. The application shows a mix of detached, semidetached houses and short terraces of three houses to be set back from Todmorden Road and around two cul-de-sacs.

Approximately seven objections have been received to the proposal expressing concerns including access and traffic, infrastructure, ecology and flooding.

Statutory consultee Lancashire County Council say they will withdraw their objection to the application should a contribution be made for the provision of 13 primary school places. They are not seeking a contribution towards secondary school places.

The planning manager’s report concludes: “The development would provide a substantial benefit in terms of a contribution towards a recognised housing need in a relatively sustainable location and allocated site and is appropriate in principle.

“Subject to conditions and a suitably worded Section 106 Agreement it is considered the development would not unacceptably detract from material planning considerations including neighbour amenity and highway safety and environmental matters.

“It is considered that the development is in accordance with the NPPF and the Council’s adopted Local Plan.”

The proposal will be decided by councillors at Rossendale’s development control committee on Tuesday, July 26.