Anger at plans for another 300 homes in this part of Merseyside

Developers say homes will provide a “desirable living environment” but many are unconvincedPlans to to build almost 300 homes near Formby village are set to be given the green light – despite a number of objections from local residents.The application proposes up to 286 houses on land at Brackenway – which has been allocated for residential development within the Sefton Local Plan.Taylor Wimpey, who want to build the homes, say the development will deliver a range of improvements to Formby , including improved connections, new high quality open spaces and ecological enhancements.They say the homes, if approved, will deliver “a desirable living environment which complements and sits comfortably within its surroundings.”But people living nearby have voiced concerns over flood risk, congestion, and school places.Formby’s Labour councillors Catie Page and Nina Killen have said the council’s planning committee often have little choice but to approve such proposals.She also said the following agencies had ‘no objections’ to the planning application subject to the conditions that would be imposed if given approval: Natural England, Environment Agency, Canal & River Trust, United Utilities, the council’s Flooding and Drainage Manager, the Merseyside Environmental Advisory Service, the council’s Environmental Health Manager, the Ministry of Defence and Merseyside Fire and Rescue .However Formby Independent councillor Bob McCann and Parish Council Chair Maria Bennett say ‘the local Labour group have failed to identify the proposals’ shortcomings’.