Thaxted planning appeal denied

An appeal by Gladman Developments to build 120 homes in Thaxted was dismissed on Monday (June 1).

The developer had appealed to the Planning Inspectorate after the plan to build off Walden Road was refused by Uttlesford District Council in June last year.

The appeal was denied on the grounds the development would do substantial harm to the town’s rural setting, effecting the character and appearance of the surrounding area.

The district council was also able to demonstrate it had a required five year supply of homes.

However, the inspector’s report acknowledged there may be a small shortfall when more detailed information regarding housing need is made available.

Tom Wilson, a member of campaign group Hands Off Thaxted, said: “Obviously we are very pleased. This was a particularly big development that many people think would change the face of the town completely.”

Mr Wilson added: “Housing has to be sustainable. As far as I’m concerned the big problem is that it was proposed to be built on farm land.

“We are very happy with the result of the appeal.”

The possibility of a second appeal by Gladman was removed as the report also ruled out a smaller scheme to build a hundred homes on the same site.

The inspector’s report stated: “The benefits from the schemes for up to 120 dwellings or up to 100 dwellings would not outweigh the harm.”

Uttlesford District Council is now preparing a revised Local Plan for the whole of the district which will incorporate the findings into its deliberations over the coming months.

A UDC spokesman said: “The council is pleased that the Planning Inspectorate has also upheld the planning committee’s decision to refuse the proposed development by Gladman Developments relating to land off Walden Road, Thaxted, because of the effect it would have on the area and the quality of the rural landscape.”

What should be done about housing? Send us your views to editor@dunmow-broadcast.co.uk or tweet as at @dunmowbroadcast