Maidenhead golf course homes plan scaled back after objections

Controversial plans to build 2,000 homes on a golf course have been scaled down after concerns.

Developer Cala Homes has decided to reduce the number of homes set to be built at Maidenhead Golf Club by 200.

The decision follows a public consultation which has seen several residents objecting to the scheme.

A second consultation will be launched on Saturday, with final plans for the 132-acre site in Shoppenhangers Road expected to be submitted in the spring.

The proposed development, named the Elizabeth Quarter, would include two schools, a local centre, cycle paths, and public open spaces.

The project is part of a local plan approved by the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead last year.

But campaign group Maidenhead Great Park previously raised concerns, saying the loss of trees and wildlife as a result of the development would be "environmental vandalism".

Charles Raikes, senior land manager at Cala Homes, said the firm met up with the campaign group in December to hear their views on the proposal and to alleviate any concerns they have.

Further consultations on the plans would follow if there are any substantive changes to the scheme, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Andy Aldridge, land director at Cala Homes, said the firm was not "necessarily looking to reduce the number of houses even further".

"But that will come through the consultation and we will see where we are once we have that consultee feedback," he said.

Follow BBC South on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Send your story ideas to south.newsonline@bbc.co.uk.