Plans to build 16 affordable homes have been given the go-ahead despite concerns facilities in Brockworth are oversubscribed.
Tewkesbury Borough councillors debated today (August 17) the plans by Bondsgate Estates Ltd which include demolishing the buildings at Henley Bank Kennels in Mill Lane.
The scheme includes a mixture of one-bedroom flats and a range of two to four bed homes which will be managed by a registered housing provider.
The layout is for ten semi-detached houses and a three storey apartment block which would accommodate six flats.
Brockworth Parish Council had objected due to the overdevelopment of the site, poor layout and design of the properties and the saturation of affordable housing provision in the area.
The council is also concerned about highways safety with the entrance close to the nearby Henley Bank High School and sports facilities.
However, planning officers recommended approving the scheme as they believe the benefits outweigh the harms.
The scheme would contribute to meeting the borough’s affordable housing needs.
James Griffin, an agent speaking on behalf of the applicant, said: “This application provides a real opportunity to significantly enhance the site and the immediate surrounding area with the removal of aged buildings and a commercial dog kennels business, replacing them with much needed affordable homes.
“My client has an active local registered housing provider ready to deliver this scheme now for those most in need.”
Cllr Elaine MacTiernan proposed approving the scheme and this was seconded by Cllr Andrew Reece.
However, Cllr Deborah Harwood opposed the scheme as it did not fit in with the housing need of the Brockworth area.
“I believe this is far too many houses for the area,” she said.
And Cllr Paul Ockelton said there was nothing in the scheme which supported the “green agenda”.
“If this does go through. Those who are in affordable homes don’t fall into the government’s scheme with regards to solar panels.
“However, if the last application had gone through and you are building £400,000 houses then those homeowners are more than entitled to go to the government for a grant scheme to put solar panels on their roofs.”
Cllr Craig Carter said there was a historical lack of sports and recreation space in Brockworth.
“Doctors are 50 per cent oversubscribed. It’s a nightmare. Schools are at full capacity and they are now looking to build more classrooms on their sports and recreation spaces.”
However, despite these concerns, the committee followed officer advice and approved the plans by 10 votes to three.
Three arrested in Gloucester after incident
