Developer Ordered To Stop Using Track

A developer has been ordered to stop using a farm track to access a new homes site in Market Harborough, or risk a £20,000 fine.

Construction vehicles on Burnmill Road                                                                                            Pic: Andy Carpenter

Harborough Council has taken legal action against David Wilson Homes following complaints from neighbours about construction vehicles using the track off Burnmill Road, that runs at the back of Kingston Way.

As well as causing a disturbance and not being an approved route, there are also concerns about harm to Great Crested Newts, which are a protected species.

Concerned residents                                                                                                                         Pic: Andy Carpenter

The developer has been warned it will be taken to Court if it fails to abide by the ‘Temporary Stop Notice’ and continues using the track to access land off Kingston Way, where 128 homes will be built.

A Council spokesperson said: “We take planning breaches very seriously and if developers fail to comply with planning regulations then enforcement action will follow.”

A spokesperson for David Wilson Homes East Midlands said: “Whilst facilitating the required archaeological works at our Burnmill Grange site, the completion of the haul road was paused but we are working closely with the Harborough District Council to ensure this is accessible by the end of February.

“Our development is under the supervision of our consultant ecologist who has assured the local authorities that our use of the track has had no ecological impact.

“Both our site team and key contractors have been reminded of the approved construction traffic route, and the appropriate action will be taken against those failing to comply with the plans.

“We have also installed two temporary ponds, drainage trenches and ensured the silt fences are working efficiently to reduce surface run-off in adverse weather conditions. We will remain proactive and monitor the situation moving forwards.

“We would like to thank the local residents for their patience”