More than 1,000 new homes to be built on green belt land in Nottinghamshire

Communities Secretary John Denham today gave the go-ahead for more than 1,000 new homes to be built on green belt land in Nottinghamshire.

Today's announcement means construction work on the 1,200 properties at Sharphill Woods, Edwalton, could start within two years.

A public inquiry was held after the developers appealed against Rushcliffe Borough Council's decision to refuse planning permission for the site in July last year.

Councillor Neil Clarke, Leader of Rushcliffe Borough Council, reacted with dismay to the news.

He said: "We are very disappointed that neither the Inspector or the Secretary of State have given due weight to the concerns that we have raised or taken account of the fact that we are part way through a local planning process with other Notts authorities to identify the best places for any new development both locally and within the region.

"We will be looking very closely at the decision to ensure we do all we possibly can to protect residents’ interests. The developers will still have to submit detailed plans.

"We understand that development might start on site in two years time, but development will be phased over a number of years.

Councillor Chris Evans, Leader of the Opposition said: “This Government is forcing housing down Rushcliffe’s throat. The residents of Rushcliffe, along with Rushcliffe Borough Council, made it quite clear this was not the right site.

"We’re developing a plan as fast as we can to accommodate this ridiculous amount of housing and we’re hopeful the Secretary of State would appreciate that and allow us to come forward with a complete plan, rather than allow the developers to have their way.”
 
In the decision notice issued today, the secretary of state said the urgent need for land for housing outweighs the inappropriate development of the green belt.

The development also includes a primary school, business innovation centre, offices, shops, a community building and health centre.