Application goes in for 150 houses in Northamptonshire village following public consultation into 'modest and proportionate' development
A planning application to build 150 houses in Earls Barton has been submitted after residents were invited to take part in a consultation earlier this month.
Applicant, Northampton-based Clayson Country Homes, is hoping to create 'a high-quality and sustainable scheme' on the village's eastern side, being a 'logical and contained extension' to the village. A planning document reads: "Overall, the proposed layout represents a well-considered and comprehensive design solution for the development of this greenfield site.
"It delivers a logical extension to Earls Barton that integrates with the existing settlement, provides significant areas of open space and landscaping, incorporates sustainable drainage measures, promotes active travel and creates an attractive and sustainable residential environment." The consultation launched by Clayson Country Homes asks residents key questions surrounding the development and how it should be shaped.
The application submitted earlier this month outlines plans for 'a mix of housing types and sizes' on an 'edge-of-settlement parcel', which would also feature a public open space and dedicated children's play area.
A planning document adds: "The development will generate significant economic benefits.
"During the construction phase, it will support jobs and economic activity across the supply chain. These benefits extend beyond the site itself, contributing to the wider economy of the region.
"Once occupied, the development will support local services through increased expenditure. New residents will contribute to the vitality and viability of shops, services and community facilities within Earls Barton."
Currently, three separate developments are being proposed in Earls Barton totalling 1,100 houses, including plans for up to 250 homes each from developers William Davis and Richborough, as well as a further 600 houses as part of a plan from developer Redrow.
Each of these proposals have attracted criticism among residents of the village for their size, scale and potential to place added stress on local amenities. Clayson Country Homes' application is the smallest of the four currently planned in Earls Barton, though if all are approved it would see 1,250 new houses around Earls Barton.
Objections to the planning application have been lodged by some residents.
One reads: "Earls Barton is already facing increasing demand on GP services, schools, dentists and other community facilities.
"Residents are entitled to understand how existing infrastructure will cope with a substantial increase in population and whether appropriate capacity will be provided before further development takes place.
"Earls Barton is a historic village with a distinct identity and setting.
"Continued large-scale expansion risks eroding the character of the village and further reducing the separation between built-up areas and the surrounding countryside."
Another added: "It is a well known fact that our village does not want to get any bigger.
"We do not have the facilities nor infrastructure, whether that be roads, schools, doctors, parking etc to support any more large developments."
The full application can be found online here or by searching with the reference 26/02838/OUT on the North Northants Council planning portal.