Wakefield greenlights 800 homes
Taylor Wimpey’s 400-strong Altofts Hall Farm development has secured approval, along with proposals from Persimmon in Knottingley and Keepmoat in South Elmsall.
Approval had been recommended for all three projects, all of which came forward for allocated housing sites, and all of which had raised varying levels of objection locally.
Taylor Wimpey sought full consent for a 43-acre agricultural site between Normanton and Altofts, plans that despite a village green and open space had raised some ire, with close to 1,000 objections and a petition. However, consent was given.
A Taylor Wimpey spokesperson said: “The site is allocated for housing in Wakefield Council’s District Local Plan and our proposal is for a development of much-needed housing, including 41 affordable homes, 12 acres of public open space, enhanced public rights of way and improvements to local sustainable travel.
“The planning consent will see us contribute over £1.6m towards improvements in local and city-wide infrastructure.
“Our application was carefully created following close consultation with the local community, Wakefield Council and other key stakeholders. We are confident that our proposals address key factors including sustainability, public amenity and wellbeing beyond the council’s policy requirements, and we are grateful for the time taken by members of the planning committee to consider our proposals.”
Persimmon also found success, with plans for 298 homes in Knottingley. Five minutes from the town centre and railway station, the York firm said that all homes will feature electric vehicle chargers and air-source heat pumps.
The development will achieve a 10% biodiversity net gain through a combination of on-site enhancements and off-site contributions. Residents will also have access to 3.7 acres of public open space.
Persimmon will contribute around £400,000 for improvements to local transport infrastructure.
James Parkin, land director at Persimmon West Yorkshire, said: “We’re pleased that committee members have voted to reaffirm the Council’s recommendation for approval.
“This development will provide a range of house types for young people, families and downsizers alike with excellent access to local amenities.
“In addition to delivering much needed quality new housing, approval of these plans also secures further investment in Knottingley.”
Keepmoat also saw its plans greenlit. The firm will deliver 112 homes after knocking down two properties to provide access.
Keepmoat proposes 24 two-bedroom homes, 74 three-bed homes and 14 four-bed homes at the site, which is close to South Elmsall railway station.
