Homes plan approved for former Whitchurch dairy site

The outline application for the former Unigate Dairy off Mile Bank in Whitchurch was granted approval by Shropshire Council yesterday.

The council's north planning committee also gave the go-ahead for outline plans to create 10 homes in Woore, near Market Drayton, at its meeting in Shirehall.

The plans for the site in Whitchurch, which has also been described as an "eyesore", have received widespread support from residents and councillors.

Speaking at the meeting, Councillor Rob Hewson, mayor of Whitchurch, said: "It has been an eyesore for over eight years now.

"There are more and more shops coming into town and we need more houses to keep these shops open."

In a letter read out on behalf of residents, who live next to the site, Councillor Hewson added: "It has become a dangerous eyesore and a constant source of anti-social behaviour."

Tom Biggins, Shropshire Council member for Whitchurch North, said: "It has been badly neglected for a decade and something needs to be done. I support this housing development."

But Councillor Biggins said it was important for a roundabout to be created near the site to address potential traffic issues.

Councillor David Minnery added: "The housing development will bring nothing but good."

The scheme involves creating at two bedroom homes, including nine which could become affordable.

Meanwhile, controversial plans to create 10 homes in Woore were backed by councillors to help address Shropshire Council's shortfall in supplying land for housing.

But the application, earmarked for land west of London Road, has sparked fears from the parish council that the village does not have the services to accommodate further housing.

Speaking yesterday, Councillor Andrew Ford, of Woore Parish Council, said: "Our village is full, our school is full. We have no doctors, dentists, public transport and no jobs within the village. The village will struggle to sustain anymore developments."

Councillor Joyce Barrow added: "I don't think I have any option to go against officers' recommendation to approve the application."

It is not yet known what type of houses will be built on the site.