Great Bowden Homes Plan Recommended For Approval

Plans for up to 52 homes on the edge of Great Bowden are being recommended for approval, despite objections from villagers.

The proposal for farmland off Leicester Lane would deliver a mix of housing, including 40% affordable homes.

37 objections have been raised, including concerns about the loss of countryside and the narrowing of the gap between Great Bowden and Market Harborough.

The proposal is for farmland off Leicester Lane

The site is bordered by homes on Frank Burditt Drive and Isaac Martin Lane to the east, with farmland to the north, west, and south.

Planning officers at Harborough District Council say there would be “moderate harm” to the  character and beauty of the countryside, as well as “less than substantial” harm to heritage assets including the Grand Union Canal Conservation Area and Grade II listed Great Bowden Hall.

However, a key factor in the recommendation to approve planning permission is the council’s current inability to demonstrate a five-year housing land supply.

Officers say the public benefits – particularly the boost to housing supply – outweigh the identified harms.

Councillors will consider the application next week.