Mixed-use Derbyshire development deferred

A development proposing the creation of new employment space and hundreds of homes in Derbyshire has been deferred.Harworth Group is seeking outline approval for a mixed-use development on land north of Derby Road in Denby, Ripley.The site, which extends to approximately 189 acres, has formerly been used for deep cast and open cast mining and has since been remediated.Lined up is about 74 acres of employment land, which is estimated to create up to 1,500 jobs.This would be provided in general industrial, storage and distribution and light industrial units.A mix of housing is proposed including a 30 per cent allocation of affordable housing.A planning statement lodged with Amber Valley Borough Council – whose planning committee met on 10 June – said: “The development proposals presented are an exciting opportunity to deliver this long overdue allocation for employment-led mixed-use development, at a time when a boost to the economy could not be more needed.”Harworth Group have spent years working on overcoming the viability and land remediation issues on this site so that new jobs can be created alongside new homes and new infrastructure. The proposed development is in accordance with all the policies in the development plan and should therefore be approved.”A report for the committee added: “On balance, the proposal is considered to meet the objectives of sustainability in terms of the social, economic, and environmental considerations as set out in paragraph 8 of the NPPF, and approval is therefore recommended.”Members voted to defer the scheme in order to arrange a site visit.