Plans for 28 homes in village - which sparked hundreds of objections - look set to be refused by Harborough councillors

The plan, by G S Land Limited and EMH Homes, looks to build the 'affordable' homes and public open space in the small village of Smeeton Westerby, near Kibworth.

However, despite the 'affordable homes' credentials, officers at Harborough District Council (HDC) have said the degree of harm from the development is “substantial” and is “not outweighed by the significant public benefits of the scheme”.

HDC now looks set to refuse the proposal, claiming the development would create a harmful and dense “pocket of built form” which would be out of keeping with its surroundings.

A total of 204 objections have been submitted for the scheme, with just four in support. One resident called the proposal “a totally unnecessary speculative development in a completely inappropriate location”.

Many objectors spoke about the loss of green space between Smeeton Westerby and Kibworth Beauchamp, with one suggesting the application “may well serve to be a Trojan horse for further development”.

Residents also raised fears of an increase in traffic and increased highway safety risks, as well as flooding concerns and the loss of village character.

Documents note the 1.6 hectare site is currently an agricultural field adjacent to Smeeton Road between the villages of Kibworth Beauchamp and Smeeton Westerby.

The site sits next to the South Leicestershire Medical Group doctors’ surgery, on the route between Kibworth Beauchamp and neighbouring Smeeton Westerby.

Included in the plans are four one-beds, 10 two-beds and 14 three-beds.

Most of the homes would be affordable rented accommodation. However, eight would be classed as “affordable home ownership” options.

Access to the site would be off Smeeton Road, with 56 parking spaces proposed to be created on the land.

A decision on the plans is due to be made at an extraordinary planning committee meeting at HDC this Thursday (February 12).