Plans for eight homes in centre of Kettering village

The site, in the middle of Mawsley, has never been built on as it was initially earmarked as the spot for a village pub.

But a lack of interest from developers meant such a facility was never built, and in 2019 a planning application to build 29 apartments for the over-55s on the site, which fronts on to Hawthorn Avenue, School Road and The Green, was approved after an appeal.

That application is still current for the site – although work has never properly begun – but the developer, Clayson Country Homes, is now seeking approval to build eight homes there instead.

Documents relating to the application say: “The site is disused and verdant in nature, featuring overgrown grass and mature trees.

“Therefore, the site is not considered to be previously developed land. The proposal is for up to eight dwellings which does not amount to a development which is major in nature.”

The planning statement goes on to add: “It is anticipated that the scheme will provide a meaningful contribution to the housing mix by two and three-bedroom medium-sized dwellings in a village where such housing stock is lacking.

“In turn, this will provide opportunities for those wishing to stay in the village – namely first-time buyers or those looking to downsize – and ensure the continued success of the villages facilities and services.”

Referencing the original planned use of the site, it says: “It is important to reiterate that, as per the Planning Inspector findings [in 2019], the use of the land for a public house holds no prospect of

success. Works for the construction of the 29 apartments have commenced within time, and as such the consent remains extant.

“However, full development of the apartments scheme has never come to fruition and an alternative, smaller residential scheme is now proposed.”

The highways authority has safety concerns with vehicle access directly off and on to School Road, something which Mawsley Parish Council echoes.

It said: “There is also a concern that residents of these dwellings may try and use on-road parking which would cause a hazard.

“Please ensure that safe access and adequate parking provision are planning conditions, should approval be given.”

The applicants say there would be less traffic from the proposed eight houses than with the previous plan for 29 apartments.

A decision on the plans (reference number 25/02054/PIP) has not yet been made.