50 Newport homes to go-ahead despite concerns

Despite objections from residents, the scheme, which had been put forward by Shropshire Homes, was granted full planning permission.

The Shrewsbury-based building firm had applied to build 50 homes on land at the rear of Willow Tree Cottage on Station Road.

Concerns were raised that the road, which is already busy would become dangerous.

Trevor Pocock, speaking on behalf of residents living close to the proposed site, told councillors: "The new houses will look directly in to the bedroom windows of our houses. At night the glare from the houses, street lights and care will be on the same level as our bedrooms. The design is poor and has no regard for existing residents; nor is it in keeping with an edge of town development."

Councillor Eric Carter said: "There will be an awful lot of new building on Station Road. It needs to be borne in mind that there are a lot of children and elderly people trying to cross that road. Perhaps a zebra crossing would allow people to navigate it safely."

Councillor Andrew Eade added: "I have a number of concerns about this development. There has been a disproportionate amount of development in Newport. The development would create more traffic which will just be adding to the problem."

The issue of safety was also raised by Councillor Peter Scott.

He said: "It was very useful to have a site visit. There was quite a lot of traffic and that is one of the issues we have on Station Road. We get a lot of complaints about speeding on Station Road. Station Road is a dangerous road. When the other developments come forward it will become a very dangerous road.

"I can not support something that is going to make Station Road more dangerous for the people of Newport. Station Road needs to be made a very safe road for these developments."

Councillor Nigel Dunmore added: "We did see how busy Station Road is and the excessive speeds that cars travel along there at. I am also concerned about the access for the development. There should be some items put in place to try and reduce speed of traffic along the road.

"But I also have concerns about the heights of the houses in relation to those nearby. Most of the houses are going to be overlooked. As it stands I can not support this application."

Members of the planning committee voted four in favour and four against the application and chairman Councillor John Minor used his casting vote to give permission to Shropshire Homes to proceed with the development.