Stinders Homes criticised as Long Sutton development is rejected

Planners voted against a developer’s hopes of building the second phase of a site in Long Sutton.

More than 50 homes had been proposed for land off Lime Walk but the plans were shot down by councillors after a lengthy debate over the impact the new properties would have.

Stinders Homes had proposed 56 dwellings, 14 of which would have been affordable or first homes, for the site to the rear of number 36, however councillors were left unimpressed by the design and layout of the site.

“This is an 87% increase over the local plan allocations,” said Coun Bryan Alcock.

“It’s sad but we seem drip by drip being taken down the road of urban development in our towns and villages.

“The outlooks from property numbers 95, 96 and 97 are boring and uninteresting and people shouldn’t have to put up with it.

“I’m not particularly impressed with the application.”

He later likened the development to something typically found in cities, adding: “I find it unacceptable, urban in nature and out of keeping with the rural setting.

“Numbers 94 to 97 look out on a car parking lot.”

Coun Andrew Woolf added: “The local plan states 34 properties but the figure of 56 demonstrably exceeds the amount of flexibility there.

“This will come up time and time again and I think we need to send a message to developers; don’t take the proverbial.”

However, Coun Andrew Tennant, who represents Long Sutton, did point out that the town was faring better than other nearby towns.

“We are getting away quite lightly in Long Sutton,” he said.

“I always say to people – look at Holbeach!”

Councillors voted against officer recommendations and refused the application - but still await the formal comments from Lincolnshire County Council’s highways department, which they anticipate will not object to the plans.