The 14ha site comprised agricultural land on the edge of a settlement. The council argued that the scheme conflicted with development plan policies limiting housing in the countryside. However, the inspector found that it would meet a need for extra housing and would not have a significant impact on the landscape. PPS3 advises that developments should be considered favourably where a five-year supply of housing cannot be shown, he observed.
The secretary of state agreed that planning permission should be granted, holding that development of greenfield land was necessary to meet development plan housing targets. The objection from the action group on the development's impact on local infrastructure and facilities did not carry significant weight, she decided.
DCS Number 100-058-325
Inspector Graham Cundale; Inquiry.
