Council calls on MP over Swanwick housing plans

A protest sign concerning Peveril Securities' housing and multi-use site plans for the Lily Street Farm area, in Swanwick, which are being considered by Amber Valley Borough Council.

Nearly 200 protestors opposed to the development attended a recent Swanwick Parish Council meeting where councillors made the decision to request the matter be sent to MP Eric Pickles - Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government.

Signet Planning Limited submitted an outline planning application, on behalf of applicant Peveril Securities Limited, to Amber Valley Borough Council for a 55,000sq metre development at Lily Street Farm, Derby Road, Swanwick, with 600 homes and facilities.

Protestor John Briggs, of Swanwick Residents Association, and campaigners who have signed a petition against the plans welcomed the move and believe there should be a rural buffer between Swanwick and Alfreton. They feel Amber Valley Borough Council has betrayed residents by considering the plans in its wider Local Plan.

He said: “There were about 175 people at the meeting and the council made a decision to write to the Secretary of State for him to consider the plans. Derbyshire County Council has also identified Swanwick as a possible site for solar panels and it feels like it’s open season.”

Peveril stated the site has low ecological value with good access off Derby Road and it will deliver housing and facilities. A consultation process ended on March 3 and the borough council is due to consider a decision by April.