Developer Wins Appeal To Build New Homes

A developer has won an appeal to build 48 new homes in Billesdon.

A planning inspector has overruled Harborough District Council’s decision to reject the plan and granted permission for it.

Over 100 villagers had objected to the proposal for land either side of Gaulby Road, which will include custom house-build plots (SBCH), affordable first-homes and a drop-off area for the nearby primary school.

Councillors unanimously refused planning permission last May, ruling the development would be out of keeping with the area, but developer Church Farm Billesdon Ltd challenged the decision.

The homes will be built on Gaulby Road

In a decision document published today, the inspector concluded: “Overall, the proposal would deliver a significant number of dwellings in a suitable location that would help to address demand for two specific forms of housing, and in the case of SBCH would go some way to addressing a very significant shortfall in delivery.

“It would also deliver housing at a time when the Council accepts it cannot demonstrate a sufficient supply of deliverable housing sites generally.

“Although the development would be in addition to existing commitments and allocations in Billesdon, the proposal would not be disproportionate in scale to the village and I am content that detailed designs to come forward at reserved matters stage would be able to integrate successfully into the surroundings so as to preserve the character and appearance of Billesdon and its hinterland.”