Praise as planning appeal dismissed
A WHITWICK parish councillor has thanked the community for their efforts after an appeal against the refusal of a 216 home planning application has been dismissed.
The Planning Inspectorate has decided to dismiss an appeal placed by Jelson Limited against the decision of North West Leicestershire District Council.
The appeal relates to an application to build 216 homes on land off Hall Lane, Whitwick, which was placed by Jelson Limited in August 2014 and refused in March 2016.
North West Leicestershire District Council states the application was refused as it is believed development on the site, which falls within the ‘Green Wedge’ separating Coal- ville and Whitwick, would result in further merging of the two areas.
It also states there were concerns over the impact the development would have on Broom Leys Crossroads’ air quality, which lies within the Coalville Air Quality Management Area - an area designed to limit nitrogen dioxide emissions.
The Planning Inspectorate report, which was published on Friday, May 5, states an Air Quality Assessment, submitted in August 2016, “satisfactorily addressed” that latter issue, however the 20-page report did look at the effect the proposals would have on the Green Wedge.
The report states there has been “strong public support” for the Green Wedge to be classed as an official Area of Separation and that it should be designated as such.
The report concludes that “the adverse impacts of granting planning permission would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits” and the appeal should therefore be dismissed.
Vice-chairman of Whitwick Parish Council Coun Ray Woodward, said: “I would like to formally thank everyone who took part in the petitions and objections against the building plans or by attending the Planning Inspector’s hearings in January this year.
“It was a great community effort and by working together the views of the people have been heard. This is tremendous news.”
A spokesperson for Whitwick Action Group, which objected to the application, said: “We are relieved that the inspectorate has backed up not just the Action Group, but the village, the local authority and the Parish Council.”
Jelson Limited did not wish to comment.