More homes for 'grey belt'

Villagers claim decision shows their protections from development are being eroded bit by bit

- Phil Corrigan

MORE homes are set to be built in the 'grey belt' outside a village.

Councillors granted 'permission in principle' for six to nine homes on farmland south of Pepper Street near Silverdale.

Newcastle Borough Council has now approved another 'in principle' application for five to nine homes on the opposite side of Pepper Street.

Both sites lie within the North Staffordshire Green Belt but officers say they meet the definition of grey belt, meaning they have less protection under planning rules.