Plans pitched for 'major' new homes development near Chesterfield

Wynford Homes want to build the two, three and four-bedroomed detached and semi-detached houses on land to the rear of Chesterfield Road, Holmewood.

The company says its proposed development ‘will help to address the shortfall of housing’ in the area and has submitted a planning application to North East Derbyshire District Council.

MORE: Chesterfield community 'concerned' after plans for more than 200 new homes are unveiled

The 1.1ha site is next to the Five Pits Trail footpath and the development will be accessed via a new road.

Mitchell Proctor Architects, on behalf of Wynford Homes, said: “The site layout indicates how the dwellings can be accommodated comfortably on this site whilst preserving the character and appearance of the area including retention of hedgerows and trees without any detrimental impact on the landscape, ecology and environment.

“The proposals would result in both economic and social benefit and meet the much-needed shortfall in the housing supply, with positive consultations in terms of the environment.

“No significant or demonstrable harm has been identified in considering these proposals and it is therefore concluded that this development would be sustainable and should be approved without delay.”

Planning documents submitted to the council also claim the proposal will bring ‘long-term benefits’ to existing services in the former mining village.

MORE: Plans for dozens of new homes will create a school-run traffic 'nightmare' in north Derbyshire town

However, the council has received a letter of objection from one resident, who says there is a ‘deluge’ of housing already in Holmewood.

David Vernon said: “Rather than keeping the housing amount to a minimum, after the deluge of new housing going up on Chesterfield Road, we now have not just ten extra houses but 40 more.”

An existing bungalow on the site will have to be demolished as part of the development.

The site already has planning consent for 25 homes and councillors at North East Derbyshire District Council will decide on this latest application, which planners consider a ‘major’ development, at a future meeting.

Harron Homes’ plan to build up to 126 new properties close by on Chesterfield Road was turned down in April this year, with council planning officers criticising an ‘unsatisfactory design that fails to take opportunities for improving the character and quality of the area’.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.