County planners have approved the design of a new “environmentally friendly” 20-home community housing estate near Hereford.
Avril Shaw asked Herefordshire Council for permission to develop the land at Tump Lane in Much Birch and provide a mix of homes from four-bedroom houses to one bed flats.
She told today’s (November 4) planning committee that the homes have been designed to exceed current ecological requirements.
“Much has changed in the world since the inception of this development,” she said.
“Yet the structure and ethos of Larkrise has become more relevant. We believe more urgent.
“We note that Herefordshire Council has committed to become carbon neutral by 2030.
“An aim that Larkrise fully supports and aspires to.
“We have taken care to fulfil the criteria that offers a neighbourhood community, i.e. clusters of homes orientated and landscaped to offer the choice of ready meeting places via pedestrian walkways enabling safe spaces throughout for children to play.
“All dwellings will be built to exceed current ecological standards, sustainable construction with high levels of insulation will create a low carbon footprint and low fuel bills for all residents.”
However, some 28 letters objecting to the scheme were sent to the council.
A letter from objector Mrs Rolph read out at the meeting called on councillors to reject the scheme.
The letter said it was disappointing that the officer’s report and all the supporting documentation were full of inconsistencies and contradictions.
It also said it went against the emerging neighbourhood plan and would create a “growing divide in the community.”
“The proposed layout and design of the scheme will have an adverse effect on existing residents, the character of the landscape and has not satisfactorily addressed the issue surrounding highways safety.”
However, councillor Jeremy Milln said he felt the applicants had made every effort to design the homes to meet the council’s climate objectives.
He proposed approving the scheme and this was supported by councillor William Wilding.
The committee unanimously approved the scheme.
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