A decision over controversial plans to build over 100 new homes near Carlisle has been put back – because of a hedgerow.
The Scotby development went before Cumberland Council’s planning committee yesterday, Wednesday, August 30, and members were due to decide whether to give it the go ahead.
But they were told at the start of the meeting that residents had objected to the plans and there was confusion over whether the boundary, where the hedgerow was located, had been correctly placed and needed further clarification.
Story Homes applied for permission to build 112 homes on land off the A69 in Scotby in 2021.
It had been recommended that the committee approve the estate at the meeting.
But Councillor Robert Betton (Botcherby, Independent Group) proposed the matter should be deferred because he was concerned they were being asked to make a decision without having the correct information.
He said he was surprised they were only hearing about the hedge-related objection at the last minute and added: “I’m not comfortable with this.”
Councillor Tony Markley (Solway Coast, Conservative) said: “My understanding was that anyone could apply for planning permission on any land.”
Councillor Andrew Semple (Cockermouth South, Labour) said members of the public, and the applicants, had taken time out and attended the meeting for a reason and added they should go ahead.
A council lawyer advised members that they had two options – to amend the recommendation or defer so the matter could be resolved.
Councillor Roger Dobson (Corby and Hayton, Lib Dems) said he was disturbed with the situation they found themselves in and he was not enthusiastic about taking the decision when there was ‘ambiguity’ with the plans.
Councillor Jimmy Grisdale (Seaton, Labour) seconded the proposal to defer the decision and members voted unanimously in favour of deferring the decision.
Both Wetheral parish council and Scotby residents had previously opposed the plan and the parish council had restated its previous objection ahead of the meeting.
They argued that the build would result in overdevelopment and could have implications for the success of St Cuthbert’s Garden Village.
They said the proposed access point onto Scotby Road near a busy and junction with the A69 Euroroute was a safety concern, particularly in emergencies.
Flooding and environmental concerns have also been raised by the group as well as indicating the site should accommodate 33 ‘affordable homes’, not 19 as in the plans.
If approved, Story Homes will be obliged to provide funding for education contributions, play provision, a speed limit implementation, travel plan monitoring, and cycling route improvements.
