Up to 90 Derby homes near green light

An application lodged by Miller Homes proposing the construction of up to 90 properties in Derby could soon move forward.The housebuilder is seeking outline permission to develop land west of Royal Hill Road, Spondon.Extending to approximately 11.1 acres, the site comprises four small field enclosures currently used for horse grazing.As this is an outline planning application, the exact housing mix will be confirmed at the time of submission of detailed reserved matters. However, the scheme would include a 30 per cent allocation of affordable housing.A statement filed on behalf of the applicant with Derby City Council – whose planning committee meets on 23 May – said: “The development of Land off Royal Hill Road, Spondon provides a unique opportunity to create a neighbourhood, building on the legacy and distinctive landscape character of the site.”Development will accord with the principles of high-quality design and best practice to create a townscape that is both varied, and yet sympathetic to its environment.”A report for the committee said: “In the overall planning balance it is considered that, whilst the principle of the residential development of this site, within the green wedge, is contrary to policy, that taking account of the ’tilted balance’ the adverse impacts, including loss of a relatively small part of the green wedge, in this particular instance, do not significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits of the scheme.”Approval has been recommended, subject to conditions.