South Leicestershire MP, Alberto Costa, has given his support to constituents in Sutton-in-the-Elms, near Broughton Astley, in opposing a forthcoming appeal for the construction of nine self-build homes on Sutton Lane which was recently refused by Harborough District Council.
The applicant has now appealed the District Council’s decision with a public hearing due to take place on 29th November with The Planning Inspectorate.
The MP has written to The Planning Inspectorate to support the District Council’s initial decision to refuse the application, and to reinforce local concerns expressed by constituents and Broughton Astley Parish Council who believe that the new homes would detrimentally affect the surrounding countryside and would contravene the village’s Neighbourhood Plan.
Alberto said, “I entirely agree with my constituents’ very serious concerns about the plans for these new homes; they would clearly, and quite detrimentally, affect the local countryside in lovely Sutton-in-the-Elms and would also contravene the agreed upon Neighbourhood Plan which my constituents have democratically approved. Harborough District Council made the right decision in refusing these plans in the first place, so I do hope The Planning Inspectorate agree and refuse this appeal accordingly”.
Alberto added, “There is of course a need for new homes in Leicestershire and around the country, however developments must be sustainable and cognisant of the local area they are due to effect. I am supportive of new housing, but it is important that this is located in the right areas. Clearly with concerns about the effects on the local countryside, as well as the ecological impact and highways access, these homes would be best located elsewhere, hence why I will be supporting my constituents in opposing this appeal”.
