Homes bid near Ellesmere set for go-ahead in face of objections

Planning officers are recommending that the scheme in Cockshutt be granted when councillors consider it at a northern planning committee on Tuesday (July 21).

The proposal has been put forward by Kelland Homes, who have targeted land off Crosemere Crescent.

It includes a range of bungalows, semi-detached and detached properties, each with garages, parking provision, and turning facilities.

A design and access statement submitted by Woodsyde Developments, on behalf of the applicant, said the development has been designed “to respect the surrounding residential character whilst providing a sustainable and well-integrated addition to the village”.

“The proposals are to upgrade the existing access and construct a new adoptable access centrally along the eastern boundary of the site, which will serve the development,” read the statement.

“There will be no gates to the proposed access and this will allow vehicles to enter and leave the public highway without delay. A pedestrian footpath will be provided within the site and to the east of the upgraded proposed adoptable highway, where it will connect with the existing footpath along the eastern side of Crosemere Crescent.”

It is proposed that two of the 14 properties will be designated for affordable rent, equating to 14.3 per cent – higher than the 10 per cent required by adopted planning policy.

The development will be a single cul-de-sac, with three properties fronting Crosemere Crescent.

Within the centre of the cul-de-sac will be open space. Additional planting and landscaping will be provided, as will benches for residents.

The highways department at Shropshire Council raised no objection, subject to conditions being agreed following the submission of further information, and a plan showing junction improvements.

Tree officers also believe the loss of a roadside hedgerow can be more than compensated, while the affordable housing team say the size and location of the two affordable properties is acceptable.

However, of the 32 representations received by members of the public, 26 were against the scheme.

Cockshutt cum Petton Parish Council and the local member, Councillor Sarah Marston, also object.

“The proposed access route via Crosemere Road from the A528 Shrewsbury Road is unsuitable for additional traffic,” said Councillor Marston.

“There is poor visibility for vehicles entering and exiting Crosemere Crescent. There are no footpaths near these junctions, making it unsafe for pedestrians.

“The existing foul water drainage system along Crosemere Crescent is already inadequate. Residents experience annual sewage backflow incidents, requiring intervention from Severn Trent to clear blockages.”

However,  Mark Perry, a planning officer at Shropshire Council, said that the benefits of the proposal outweigh the identified conflicts, meaning that it is being recommended for approval. This, added Mr Perry, is subject to the applicant entering into a Section 106 agreement to secure the delivery of the two affordable dwellings.

“The proposed development is considered to be in keeping with the prevailing layout of development in the immediate area and would not harm its character and appearance, neither would it result in visually harmful encroachment into the countryside,” said Mr Perry.

“Although local residents have raised issues about increased traffic and road
safety, the evidence does not demonstrate that the proposal would generate
enough traffic to compromise highway safety.”