Plans for 970-home Lincolnshire neighbourhood rejected against officer recommendation

The outline application included the construction of 970 homes, including affordable housing, as well as a community hub, a primary school and public open space.

It had been recommended for approval by the Council's planning officers after finding that the Council could not demonstrate a five year housing land supply and that the National Planning Policy Framework's presumption in favour of sustainable development would apply.

The officers also said that the design of the scheme was "indicative of a potentially high quality urban design in its layout" and that the proposals would result in "the creation of an acceptable extension to the settlement which will be sympathetic to its immediate setting".

However, the committee dismissed the application because it felt the scheme would have a "significant adverse impact on Louth and local services", according to local reports. The committee was also concerned about potential flood issues in the area.

“It was concluded that approving the application was not in the best interests of Louth as it did not achieve the best possible sustainable development,” said committee chairman Neil Cooper.