Controversial village homes plan with ‘serious flooding concerns’ has been recommended for approval

Manor Oak Homes has put forward the outline application for land at The Springs. The developer says 40 percent of the scheme will be classified as ‘affordable housing’, with modified access onto Main Street.

A total of 29 objections were raised against the plans, with residents saying “the site plays a vital role in flood mitigation, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall”, and the proposal would “disrupt and redirect underground springs” and “increase flood risks”.

Other objections raised regarding the plans summarised by planning officers include loss of countryside to “concrete, bricks, tarmac and more people”, “Fleckney has a distinct rural character which is being gradually eroded by continual large-scale developments”, and concerns about preserving the village’s heritage and character.

Residents also said the proposed access to the site is concerning, “on a tight S-bend with poor visibility”, and the development “would significantly increase the risk of accidents at this location, for cars, pedestrians and other highway users”, and “village infrastructure and amenities cannot cope”.

Fleckney Parish Council also raised concerns. Regarding the flooding, it said: “Whilst the application proposes the use of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) there is nevertheless a serious concern over the discharge of surface water from the site into the Fleckney brook and the impact this will have further downstream in the village centre which in the past has been known to flood.

“The area is a natural spring hence the name, this is much needed at present to help alleviate future flood incidents of which the village face, by developing this site will increase the issues the village already faces.”

However, the planning report states: “The site lies in low risk fluvial flood zone 1. No parts of the site are affected by Environment Agency documented fluvial, groundwater or surface water flood risks, although localised surface water flood risks, natural springs and soil/geology which limits infiltration is reported.”

In addition, planning officers note: “Following the submission of additional information by the applicant, the application documents have been further reviewed by the lead local flood authority and found to be satisfactory.

Giving their reason to put forward the plans for approval, planning officers said: “The development is proportionate in scale and in keeping with the form, character and appearance of the village of Fleckney.

“The development would be cohesive with the village and would integrate into the village context.”

A decision on the plans is due to be made today (Tuesday, May 12).