Decision on 140 new homes due amid objections

A decision on plans to build 140 homes in a market town is due next week, amid objections from the town council.

Freeman Homes wants permission to develop land at Poolway Farm in Gloucester Road, Coleford, which will be debated by the Forest of Dean District Council's development management committee on 21 January.

The proposals seek full planning permission to build the new homes along with road access, footways, parking, drainage and open space.

But some local residents have said the character of the town "has not been considered or maintained" and Coleford Town Council has objected because of concerns around the proposed road layout.

It said access via a roundabout is critical and it fears some gas infrastructure for the development is proposed to be located in an inappropriate and unsafe position.

If approved, the new estate would include 53 two bed homes, 34 three bed houses and 37 four beds along with 12 two bed flats and four five bed dwellings.

About 16 people have raised concerns, with some fearing the impact the new homes will have on local services and that the estate would be out of keeping with the local area.

"Entering Coleford from every direction is a housing estate that looks different and the character of the town has not been considered or maintained," one person said.

Another objector asked: "Are there enough school, doctor and dentist spaces?

"Are there adequate basic jobs and social services in place that meet the needs for an additional 140 households?"

Consultants working on the scheme said the plans will provide much-needed housing and district council officers have already deemed the proposals acceptable and have recommended granting permission.

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