Plans for a development of eight affordable homes in Swannington have been submitted to North West Leicestershire District Council.

The scheme is proposed on 1.34 acres of land to the rear of Meadow Barn, 4 Station Hill, by the applicant, Mr Ray Burton.

A planning statement accompanying the application says that a previous version of the scheme was submitted for pre-application advice - and that the response from the district council concluded that the residential development was acceptable in principle.

But the scheme has 'undergone significant changes', according to the statement - reducing the number of homes in line with a local housing needs survey, along with positive changes regarding landscaping and massing. 

The applicant says that the assessment has concluded that the principle of the proposed development is clearly established, as an up-to-date Housing Needs Assessment shows 'a level of need for affordable housing which the scheme will fulfil'. 

The planning statement adds that: "It is therefore concluded that the proposed development is entirely suitable for the granting of planning permission. 

"The Applicant is happy to engage with the Parish Council and local residents, to assist in the successful delivery of much needed affordable housing."

The development would consist of one 2-Bedroom, 4-Person House; one 3-Bedroom, 5-Person House; two 1-Bedroom, 2 Person Bungalows; and four 2-Bedroom, 4-Person Bungalows.

The scheme would use a single estate road, leading directly from the adjacent highway.

In conclusion, the planning statement says:

• The principle of the proposed development has been clearly established via an up to date local housing needs survey 

• The development has been shown to achieve an excellent standard of design which will make a positive contribution to local character and will create an attractive neighbourhood environment 

• The proposals address concerns raised via the pre-application advice sought previously, vastly reducing the scale of development 

• The key material consideration in this case comprises the benefits of delivering high-quality affordable homes in a context of urgent and increasing need both within the settlement and across the district, whilst creating a sustainable and inclusive community that will make a positive contribution to the village.