Authority to rule on scheme for 470 homes

AN APPLICATION to build 470 homes in Bridlington is to go before planners as opponents have voiced fears the development could harm centuries-old archaeology.

East Riding Council’s Planning Committee is to decide on the application, from developer Keepmoat Homes, on Thursday. The plans would see the homes built on land north of Strawberry Fields, Kingsgate if councillors give them the go ahead.

But 14 objections have been lodged over fears of increased traffic, local schools and health services being overwhelmed and its environmental impact, with Bridlington Town Council also against the plans.

The town council has called for full archaeological investigations to ensure that Neolithic and Roman artefacts are not damaged.

Councillors approved outline plans in 2014, with Thursday’s committee hearing set to discuss details for the estate.

The plans would see 12 onebedroom, 91 two, 229 three and 138 four-bedroom homes built on farmland. The site has been used for car boot sales for several years. Two access roads would also be built from Kingsgate to the new estate, which would also feature a play area and two new sports pitches.

Council planning officers have recommended approval for the homes, saying they are “well designed” and would not adversely affect existing residents. Developers’ documents claim the estate would offer “high quality” homes set within “attractive” green spaces.

Bridlington Town Council said among its objections that the estate risked isolating the Kingsgate Wood nature habitat, and added: “Current infrastructure requires thorough investigation to ensure that it can support the occupants of 470 new homes.

“Appropriate archaeological investigations are essential given the previous findings in this area of a Neolithic and Roman nature.”