Harborough council chiefs warn housing developers not to break planning rules

The critical get-together came after Harborough District Council took action against David Wilson Homes over their new Burnmill Farm estate amid residents’ fury.

The face-to-face meeting came as the council staged a ‘Developer Forum’ at The Symington Building on Thursday February 13.

It was attended by a string of construction companies and council planning officials.

The event highlighted work being done by the authority to ensure planning conditions are met by developers.

It was also an opportunity for housebuilders to ask questions and clarify any issues they had.

The council twice cracked down on David Wilson Homes for flouting regulations on its controversial Burnmill Farm development in Harborough in late 2019.

Cllr Jonathan Bateman, the council’s Cabinet lead on planning enforcement, said: “This was a very positive event to look at how we can work better with developers to ensure building projects can go ahead with minimal disruption to residents and within the boundaries of planning law.

“While we are prepared to take action if any breaches of planning conditions occur enforcement should be a last resort.”

He added: “This event was highlighting how we can work proactively with developers, and others, to ensure planning conditions are adhered to, such as working hours, road cleaning and agreed construction vehicle routes.”

Cllr Phil King, the council’s leader, said after attending the event: “This was a very worthwhile event which encouraged positive working with developers to ensure planning conditions are upheld.

“I’d like to thank all those who attended.”