'Delight' as 58 homes next to cricket club rejected

A government planning inspector has ruled that 58 houses next to a village cricket club cannot be built, despite an appeal from the developer.

The decision upholds North Northamptonshire Council's refusal to grant planning permission for homes in Barton Seagrave near Kettering, despite the appeal by developers Manor Oak Homes.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service said the Planning Inspectorate's inquiry ended on 7 January.

Campaign group Save Barton Seagrave's Spinneys (SBSS) said it was "still in shock", but "absolutely delighted".

The proposal prompted more than 1,100 objections and the Reform UK-led council rejected the plans on the basis they would "erode the character and appearance of the area".

The council also said the scheme would harm "residential amenity" and "diminish the sense of tranquillity".

In the report, the government's Planning Inspectorate concluded the development would cause long-term harm to the area's character and appearance, and they raised concerns about highway safety.

While acknowledging the need for housing, the inspector said the harm "significantly and demonstrably outweighs the identified benefits".

SBSS co-founder John Hunter added: "We will definitely be planning a celebration to say thank you to the community for all we've achieved."

Manor Oak Homes has been approached for comment.

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