Plans for 121 new homes in Wombourne approved

Two parcels of land to the north of Pool House Road have been earmarked for the development by Lovell Homes.

On Tuesday (September 23) South Staffordshire Council’s planning committee voted unanimously to grant permission for the development. More than 40 affordable homes are proposed as part of the development, committee members heard.

Stuart Wells from Lovell Homes, speaking in support of the application at Tuesday’s meeting, said: “Both parcels (of land) represent safeguarded land to meet long term housing development needs as identified within the council’s Site Allocations Document adopted in 2018. The parcels were considered by an independent planning inspector through examination in public and found sound.

“Both parcels also have the benefit of being identified as a housing allocation for 144 homes in the emerging Local Plan that is currently subject to examination. The proposal for 121 homes represents a reduced level of development in comparison to the emerging Local Plan and this is due to the presence of overhead electricity lines on the western parcel.

“Lovell Homes has listened to the views of consultees and the local community in amending the scheme, including those of Wombourne Parish Council, County Highways and the lead local flood authority. The proposal includes offsite highway improvements, including the requested reduction in speed limit to Pool House Road, footpaths to the north side of Pool House Road, pedestrian crossings and improvements to the Bridgnorth Road junction through signalisation – improvements to existing bus stops are also proposed.”

“The green infrastructure strategy includes the provision of allotments to serve Wombourne, a new locally equipped area of play and a level of amenity green space in excess of current and future council standards. The proposed homes provide a mix to reflect local need; 10% of all homes are designed to meet the needs of older people and 40% of all homes are provided as affordable housing.”

Tom Higgins, who also spoke at the meeting, said: “Although I support this development and hope our younger residents will be able to afford some of the new homes instead of moving out of the village, I do have a couple of concerns. A map shows construction traffic approaching from two directions.

“The route along School Road and Ounsdale Road in Wombourne North joins Poolhouse Road which is in Wombourne South. This will result in HGVs carrying concrete, bricks and other building materials driving past three schools.

“My second concern relates to public transport – the nearest bus stop is in Planks Lane, 700 metres from the site. I respectfully request a condition be included to require the developer to liaise with appropriate authorities, with a view to providing a much-needed bus service in this area.

“During your debate, think of hundreds of HGVs travelling past three schools. And also imagine yourself with two bags of shopping, walking 700 metres from a bus stop.”