Nine bungalows passed off Crossgate Lane, Pinchbeck by South Holland District Council despite being on land that would be considered ‘unacceptable’

Plans for nine bungalows have been given the green light – despite being in a site that officers say would be ‘typically resisted’.

Melbourne Properties has been given permission to carry out the development on land off Crossgate Lane in Pinchbeck – close to the village sign and the junction with Surfleet Road.

The greenfield site is actually outside the settlement boundary of Pinchbeck and is considered to be ‘countryside’. However, outline planning permission was granted for 16 homes on the land before the current local plan was passed and so approval was granted.

A report from South Holland District Council’s planning officers stated: “Given that the site is outside of the settlement boundary, the proposal would form development that would typically be considered out of character or unacceptable in principle.

“However, in this instance, the land subject to this application has been subject to numerous proposals, and being subject to extant permissions as detailed above.

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“Overall, it is considered that the proposed development, when viewed in relation to the existing settlement to which it would reside and in relation to that previously approved through extant permission, would not cause an unacceptable impact upon the vicinity.”

The nine bungalows would fit around the edge of the 3.6-acre site facing inwards – with a ‘pocket park’ in the middle.

Pinchbeck Parish Council did not object and said the plans would ‘improve local amenity’.

Since being passed, an amendment has been submitted to tweak the refuse arrangements – with the aim that bags would be brought forward to a collection point.

What do you think? Should the plans have been approved? Post your thoughts in the comments below...