Controversial plans for more than 100 new homes in Higher Kinnerton gather pace

CONTROVERSIAL proposals to create more than 100 new homes in a Flintshire village have started to gather pace.
Stewart Milne Homes has requested a screening opinion from planning officials to see if an environmental impact assessment (EIA) is required as part of an application to develop land either side Sandy Lane in Higher Kinnerton.
The company previously held a consultation over the scheme, which would see 107 properties built close to the English border.
It attracted objections from members of Higher Kinnerton Community Council who said the extra traffic would have a negative impact on the environment.
But the application has now taken a step forward after the housebuilders wrote to the local authority.
In the document, planning consultant Howard Jones argued the development would not harm the surrounding area.
It comes despite both great crested newts and frogs being discovered living in two ponds located on the site.
He said: “The proposed development would involve the construction of approximately 104 dwellings and would be carried out on a development site with a total area of 8.11 hectares.
“Whilst the proposed development exceeds the size threshold for EIA development, as indicated in schedule two of the EIA regulations, it is unlikely to have significant environmental effects.
“No part of the proposed development would be carried out in a “sensitive area”.
“Having regard to the location, scale and nature of the proposed development and the screening criteria, we conclude that the proposed development, comprising the erection of approximately 104 dwellings together with associated environmental mitigation and enhancement works, on land at Sandy Lane, Higher Kinnerton does not constitute EIA development.
“We look forward to receiving the local planning authority’s formal screening opinion in due course.”
Mr Jones said a mitigation scheme had been drawn up to minimise the effect of the development on the newts.
It will result in the creation of a new habitat for them closed to a dismantled railway line on the site.
The proposals include mews properties, along with three, four and five bedroomed houses.
The company has promised that around a third of the homes would be affordable with access via Sandy Lane.
Planners are aiming to respond to the request in January.

By Liam Randall – Local Democracy Reporter