Future of Alternative Housing Development in Bassingham Resides in Appeal Hearing
The destiny of a contentious housing project on the edge of Bassingham, near Lincoln, hangs on the decision of an upcoming appeal hearing. This comes as no surprise as the proposal for building 22 new entry-level homes was formerly disallowed by the North Kesteven District Council in April.
Mark Jackson, the applicant, is set to challenge the earlier decision in an appeal hearing scheduled for February 7, 2024. Various complexities associated with the proposed scheme were cited by a planning officer in his report.
Harm to Natural Landscape
He emphasised that this proposed development could detract from the existing character of the surrounding landscape. At 25 homes per hectare, the increased density of the scheme sharply contrasts with the neighbouring Mill Fields estate.
Real Concerns: Reduction of Nature & Increased Traffic
Other worries highlighted included the potential destruction of natural habitat due to the planned expansion of the footpath and the entrance to the estate. Very nearly 100 objections were formally made to the plans in latter 2022 and early 2023. Resident John Braithwaite criticised the scheme as a plan that will only add more car journeys to an area with few job opportunities.
Village Infrastructure Under Pressure
"Local services, such as the doctors and school, are already under 'unacceptable pressure' and cannot take anymore,"
Susan Black, one of the dissenting voices, stressed, expressing her worry about the village's infrastructure.
Scheme's Defenders
Despite the criticism, Jackson confidently lodged an appeal on October 18, testifying that the housing development would have "no discernable effect" on the environment and would create a "sustainable place to live" that maximised environmental advantages.