Gladman Developments has applied for planning permission to build 100 homes in a small town in north Bedforshire.
One of the main issues was that the scheme did not comply with Policy DM4 of Central Bedfordshire Core strategy. The Appellant and Council both referred to recent appeal decisions that were completely inconsistent in their conclusions.
The Planning Inspector who was appointed to determine the Appeal concluded that she felt the policy could not be considered up to date.
The Inspector concluded the main issues for the scheme were: the effect of the development on the character and appearance of the landscape; the contribution to the provision of housing; whether the proposed development would preserve or enhance the setting of the Astwick Conservation Area and the effect of the development on Best and Most Versatile (BMV) agricultural land.
The Inspector found ‘the proposed development would be viewed as a continuation of the settlement of Stotfold’ and would contribute to the delivery of housing, including 35 affordable homes.
The Inspector Helen Hockenhull concluded that the Appeal should be allowed and planning permission granted subject to conditions.