Plans for a five home development in Whitwick have been given outline planning permission - despite a local councillor's prediction of traffic 'mayhem' as a result.

The application was made last August by Loughborough-based company P&S Planning & Development Ltd on the site at what was 86, Leicester Road - where the previous property has been demolished.

There has been strong opposition to the scheme from Whitwick Parish Council, supported by 24 letter of objections from local residents.

Councillor Tony Gillard, representing Holly Hayes ward, spoke at last week's meeting of North West Leicestershire District Council's planning committee meeting in Coalville to voice his concerns about the plans.

He said the scheme should not be allowed on planning grounds for a number of reasons.

Cllr Gillard said: "As ward member and local resident, I have local knowledge of the area, I've lived there for 25 years and represented Holly Hayes for 16 years.

"I have local knowledge and this is a very busy road, more vehicles would add more traffic and congestion and increased speeds.

Councillors were shown a plan of the proposed scheme. Image: North West Leicestershire Distrcit Council

"Vehicles leaving the site will cause further mayhem and accidents to road users and pedestrians alike.

"The design is out of character for the area.

"A wall is being knocked down which dates back to 17th century, Whitwick would be losing part of its heritage."

Cllr Gillard also said some of the planned properties would be 'overbearing' in terms of their proximity to neighbouring homes and that the development would have a serious impact on local wildlife that inhabit the site.

But he also pointed to an added flooding risk in the future.

Cllr Gillard said: "Where is the surface water going to be collected? Properties will be affected. What consideration has been given to this after the constriction of five dwellings.

"It could after the water course of the subterranean stream.

"I and many other local residents are vehemently against this application."

But Philip Rowland, the agent for P&S Planning and Development, insisted the scheme should be given the green light.

He told the meeting: "The principle is clearly acceptable. It would not be detrimental to the character of the area.

"There are no technical reasons why it should not be granted.

"The report concludes it would not impact on surrounding properties."

The council responded by emphasising this was an outline planning application and any future house designs would be heard at a later date under what is known as reserved matters.

It was also claimed that only part of the wall would be taken down, for access to the site.

In response to Cllr Gillard's traffic concerns, it was pointed out that Leicestershire County Council Highways had not objected to the plans.

Image: North West Leicestershire District Council

But Whitwick councillor Peter Moult said: "The wall is being taken down, it's either there or not.

"We have a quarry in Whitwick, that is pumping out water into the brook and the stream, they all connect.

"I can't believe it wouldn't have an impact going forward and a detrimental affect on the drainage.

"The design is a low level bungalow, but the houses could be two storey.

"Some neighbours say there is a land grab."

Cllr Dave Bigby also voiced concerns about what homes will eventually be built.

He said: "I'm concerned, I'd prefer a full application rather than a speculative one, aimed at getting permission and selling to a developer.

"Is there any certainty that they'll be bungalows?"

In response, the council said they would advise against building two storey houses.

Cllr Nigel Smith added: "I remember Whitwick making national news due to flooding. Presumably, it's now worse.

"And if the wall is that old, it can be listed. That could be looked at."

But Cllr David Everitt said the traffic problems were a main concern.

He added: "That road is steep, and there are junctions nearby.

"I can assure you it's a hazardous road."

But the scheme was given the go-ahead with five councillors voting for the plans, four against and two abstentions.