Plans for 24 properties near A52 in Bicker - despite concerns regarding access and number of affordable homes

Plans to build 24 homes on a village site have been lodged - despite concerns regarding access and the number of affordable homes.

Applicant Uno Homes and Properties want to erect the two-storey homes on land to the east of Donington Road in Bicker, near to the A52.

Plans also include new vehicular and pedestrian access and communal areas.

“The proposal site is a large open grassed space,” the design and access statement prepared by agent The Duffin Partnership said.

“Surrounding the site are residential properties which predominately reside on Donington Road.

“To the east is the A52, a major road. On the boundaries there are trees and hedging.

“Donington Road was at one time the A52 road passing through the edge of the village of Bicker but it now bypasses it. The site in question is located between the old and the new roads.

“To the west of the site are the dwellings facing onto Donington Road,to the east is the A52 bypass.

“To the north and south of the site are existing dwellings and outbuilding which are screened with landscaping.”

Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue have objected to the plans ‘on the grounds of inadequate access and water supply’.

In a letter to Boston Borough Council, the fire service added it would require ‘the installation of one fire hydrant’.

Another concern has been raised by David Jolley, housing strategy and enabling officer at Boston Borough Council.

“Within the application four units, 16% affordable housing provision has been proposed which does not meet the requirements detailed within the council’s local plan,” Mr Jolley wrote.

“On developments of 10 or more properties a provision of 20% is required, which on this scheme would be five affordable properties.

“To meet the affordable housing contribution requirements and to reflect the need within Bicker the affordable properties should be provided as four two-bed four-person affordable rented units and one three-bed five-person shared ownership property.

“We would be grateful if the proposed layout is amended to reflect this.”

The design and access statement added: “It is proposed that the properties will be brickwork finish to be agreed with the planning authority.

“Roofs to dwellings will have a flat slate grey tile, again to follow a rural aesthetic of the surrounding properties.

“The design of the properties is of a pragmatic appearance to help to blend in with the existing properties around the site.”