MP warns of flooding in opposition to homes plan

An MP has called for a proposed 150-home development in a village in Leicestershire to be rejected, warning of "serious and unresolved" flood risks.

Alberto Costa, Conservative MP for South Leicestershire, has written to Harborough District Council's chief executive after concerns were raised by residents over proposals in Fleckney submitted by Catesby Strategic Land Limited.

More than 180 objections have been submitted through the council's planning portal.

The council is expected to make a decision by 2 March.

Costa said the plans for land south of Kilby Road would "significantly and detrimentally alter the character of Fleckney".

He argued that the developer's flood risk assessment failed to recognise flooding recorded as recently as January 2025.

He also said the proposals conflict with local housing supply policy, claiming evidence shows Fleckney "has already met its housing supply requirements until 2041".

The MP raised further concerns about road safety and transport links, stating the road network was "of a poor standard" with "limited capacity", and that extra traffic would increase risks to pedestrians.

A flood risk assessment by RPS Group, submitted on behalf of the developer, said the site would be safe with mitigation measures in place and the project would not increase flooding elsewhere.

If approved, the 8.75‑hectare (21-acre) scheme would include up to 150 homes, 40% of which would be classed as affordable. The plans also propose open spaces, community orchards, play areas, drainage infrastructure, and new footpath and cycle links.

Catesby Estates told the Local Democracy Reporting Service it did not wish to comment on the MP's submission regarding the planning application.

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