New housing bid 'should ring alarm bells for locals'

OUTLINE PLANS FOR 70 HOMES RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL - BUT CONSERVATIONISTS FEAR ADVERSE IMPACT ON TOWN'S RURAL SETTING

- By JOE LOCKER Local democracy reporter

CONSERVATIONISTS says a “very special town” could be adversely transformed if plans for 70 new homes are approved next week.

Developer Richborough is seeking outline planning permission for up to 70 homes west of Allenby Road, Southwell.

Outline permission is typically sought to assess whether the site is suitable before more detailed plans for design and layout are tabled later.

The site is to the west of the town next to existing homes which border open countryside towards the village of Halam.

Southwell is regarded as “one of the prettiest towns in Nottingham-shire’) and is home to the Grade Llisted Minster.

Plans will be discussed at a Newark and Sherwood District Council planning committee meeting on Thursday, where they are expected to be approved. It will appear before the committee because it is a departure from the council’s housing allocation plan, and the land was not originally earmarked for housing.