Developers lodge plans for 1,575 homes

Plans for 1,575 homes, a new primary school, sports facilities and land earmarked for businesses have been submitted in Shropshire.

The development would form the largest part of a proposed 2,100-home community between Shawbirch and Bratton, on arable farmland north of Telford.

Developers Bloor Homes said the scheme would also include public open spaces alongside specialist housing for elderly people.

The 89-hectare (220-acre) site has been earmarked for development in Telford and Wrekin Council's emerging local plan.

The Bratton Green development would be one of three proposed "sustainable communities" expected to deliver thousands of homes across the borough.

Developers estimate the project would bring more than £293m of construction investment over 13 years and create hundreds of jobs.

Planning documents state that almost 39 hectares would be dedicated to green space, sports facilities, play areas and sustainable drainage features.

Developers have also pledged at least a 10% biodiversity net gain.

The amount of affordable housing remains unresolved. While Bloor Homes said it was committed to providing affordable homes, planning documents state the final number would depend on the cost of infrastructure needed to support the development.

Documents submitted with the application acknowledge there would be some impact on agricultural land, the landscape and heritage assets, but argue the benefits of the scheme outweigh any harm.

The consultation period runs until 3 November, with a decision expected by 29 January.

Local plans are council's long-term blueprints showing where new homes, jobs, roads, schools and other development are expected to go over the coming years.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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