'Penis-shaped' housing estate unanimously approved

A controversial scheme for up to 250 homes – described by local residents as 'penis-shaped' – has been unanimously approved.

The development, off Arleston Lane in Lawley, will consist of a mix of two, three, and four-bedroom houses, with 63 reserved for affordable housing.

The outline application was submitted by Telford and Wrekin Council and Homes England in January.

The authority's planning committee was called to consider it on Wednesday, with the recommendation of approval.

Some residents objected to the development, concerned that community services like schools, doctors and dentists would fail to "keep up".

Among the objectors was Lawley and Overdale Parish Council, which said it was concerned about increased traffic along Glendale and Pepper Mill.

It added that the proposed one-way system along part of Arleston Lane would be unenforceable, and had the potential to confuse drivers.

Planning agent AtkinsRéalis said there had been an extensive consultation.

The committee was told that all technical consultees supported the scheme, and there would be no construction traffic during school times.

More than £2m would be contributed towards educational provision in the area.

"The land itself has been designated for development for many years, and I can't find any reason to refuse the idea, any development on it," said councillor Peter Scott.

"But when we talk about reserved matters, what the developer will have to do on that area is win some hearts and minds, and at the moment they don't seem to be winning too many."

Councillor Nigel Dugmore added: "As we have seen in the press, the application has drawn considerable attention due to its shape, and it's going to be very interesting to see what street names are going to come out – there's some cracking suggestions."

"The land was always earmarked for development, just like the rest of where Lawley is now, so it's really impossible to refuse."

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