Refusal to build First Homes in village backed

A planning inspector has backed a decision to refuse permission for affordable housing in a village.

The inspector found the proposal - to build 24 so-called "First Homes" in Roade near Northampton, would harm the character of the area.

The government's First Homes scheme means first-time buyers can get at least 30% off the house price when they purchase.

The result of the appeal has been welcomed by Roade Parish Council, which said the application had contravened the village's adopted Neighbourhood Development Plan.

The Higham Ferrers-based firm, Snowdon Homes, planned to build the homes in fields next to Northampton Road, external.

Developments that consist mostly of First Homes can be approved - even if they do not conform to the area's local planning blueprint.

The company appealed after the application was turned down by West Northamptonshire Council.

The planning inspector who heard the appeal, external accepted that the development would "help reduce the district-wide shortfall of affordable housing".

He also found that there would be "some modest socio-economic benefits during construction and local after-spend from future residents".

Nevertheless, he said the development would "cause harm to the setting and hence significance of Roade Conservation Area.. which I have found would not be outweighed by the public benefits".

He added: "There would also be harm to the character and appearance of the area. These are serious planning objections."

Mick Davies from Roade Parish Council, who attended the appeal hearing, said: "Roade Parish Council are pleased with this decision.

"Roade has had approximately 500 new houses in recent years, all with provision for low-cost housing.

Mr Davies added that Roade had an adopted Neighbourhood Development Plan in place, and the application contravened it.

He said: "Had the decision gone in favour, that would have had serious implications for Neighbourhood Development Plans across the country.”

Snowdon Homes have been asked for a response.

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