Inspector overturns rejection of 150-house plan

Campaigners have lost their fight to prevent 150 homes being built on a north Staffordshire green space.

A planning inspector granted permission for the homes on farmland off Mucklestone Wood Lane, Loggerheads.

It follows a public inquiry by the developer, Shropshire Homes, which was triggered in December against Newcastle Borough Council.

The plans were originally recommended for approval by the council, but planning committee members voted to block it on the grounds that the location had limited public transport.

More than 400 people objected to the planning application.

The proposed estate includes starter homes, housing suitable for the elderly, and a multi-use games area.

Concerns were also raised about its impact on open countryside and the Grade II listed White House Farm.

In making the decision the inspector said: "I have found that the appeal site forms a sustainable and suitable location for development with good accessibility to the services and facilities within Loggerheads village that provide for everyday needs."

The inspector acknowledged that new residents would need to use cars to access larger towns, but said existing public transport, despite its frequency limitations, was a viable alternative.

"I am advised by the appellant that the proposals would bring an estimated construction spend of £35m, supporting both direct and indirect jobs in the area.

"It is also intended that apprentices would be employed on site."

They added that financial contributions were set to be provided towards healthcare, and to Madeley High School to support secondary education.

In a Facebook post, the Loggerheads save our village group posted: "We would like to take this moment to remind residents that this is for outline planning.

"We now hope, with this being the case, we may still have a chance at working with these developers to at least protect the Lane and village as best we can."

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