Work begins on housing estate after seven years

Work has started on a new housing estate seven years after plans for the development were first unveiled.

Developer Yorvik Homes announced this week that work on the 127-house Highfield Chase scheme in Leyburn, North Yorkshire, had begun on the edge of the town.

Planning consent was approved by the former Richmondshire Council in February 2023 after access to the development was moved further west along Moor Road than was originally planned.

However, more than 50 people submitted objections to the scheme before it was granted.

Issues raised included concerns the development could cause flooding, worries about insufficient parking, health services and spaces at the local primary school, and fears that the proposed pedestrian access through Thornborough Woods would not be suitable.

Concerns were also raised that residents would use Woodburn Drive, which is a private road with no right of way, to access areas of the town including the schools.

On condition of planning being granted, Yorvik Homes agreed to pay £363,693 towards an extension at Leyburn Primary School.

A further £150,000 will be provided to improve bus links to the new estate, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Public access will also be built to Thornborough Hall Gardens to link the housing with Leyburn town centre.

Of the 127 detached, semi-detached and terraced properties, 28 will be available as discounted first homes to buy and 10 will be designated as affordable homes to rent.

A statement from the developer said: "Work has officially begun at Highfield Chase. Set in a sought-after location, this collection of homes will offer modern design and stunning surroundings."

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