Housing development in Woonton approved despite residents' objections
Locals fear new homes will double the size of their rural hamlet
Residents of the hamlet of Woonton, located in Herefordshire, have been unsuccessful in their attempts to prevent a housing development they fear will drastically alter their community.
In March, Mr Mills submitted a full planning permission application for nine detached and semi-detached homes in the area southeast of Kington.
Despite numerous local objections, the proposal has now been approved by Herefordshire Council’s planning committee.
Chris Cates, speaking on behalf of 18 other residents, described the development as "poor speculative" with no considerations for the location.
He pointed out that the application intentionally falls under the ten-home threshold, avoiding the requirement for social or affordable housing, and lacks proposed improvements to local infrastructure.
With permission already granted for 17 homes since 2021, Woonton’s population growth means the community has nearly doubled in size.
Local parish councillor Michael Handley commented on the rapid expansion, suggesting it would be unsustainable elsewhere in Herefordshire.
The proposed 24 parking spaces are anticipated to result in a 150 per cent increase in local traffic movements.
While Russell Pryce, the developer’s agent, argued that the mix of dwellings and ample gardens logically extend Woonton, the plan faced mixed reactions.
Coun Roger Highfield emphasized the pressure on councillors to approve housing due to the county’s growing housing supply deficit.
He highlights a concern over building indiscriminately on good agricultural land without fair distribution of new housing.
Coun Bruce Baker praised the design of the approved scheme compared to previous red-brick developments, leading the motion to pass by six votes to two, with four abstentions.