Yahoo News Developer 'delighted' as it confirms 135-home development to go ahead
Following a successful appeal a developer says it is “delighted” as it confirmed its 135-home scheme will be built.
The planning inspectorate held a public enquiry from April 9 to 12 after visiting Rectory Farm, Kings Langley, to determine whether it was a suitable site for the scheme which had been rejected by Dacorum Borough Council.
In its decision, on May 9, the inspector allowed the appeal and developers Cala Homes and Angle Property have confirmed it will be moving ahead with the project.
Cala Homes Chiltern land director Jim Brunt said: “We are delighted to have received approval on appeal for our development on the site at Rectory Farm.
“As housing demand remains high, we are proud to be delivering these much-needed homes whilst providing jobs, boosting the local economy, and working alongside a local charity to build community infrastructure improving the lives of local residents.
“This development will not only provide housing but will offer many benefits to the community, thanks to the extensive investment in the community hub and substantial public green spaces that will be created.”
Rectory Farm. (Image: Kings Langley and District Residents Association)
The development will include one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom homes, of which 40 per cent will be designated as affordable, and a community hub providing a café and farm shop, workshop, orchards, allotments, repair shed and cycle hub, which will be run by the charity Sunnyside Rural Trust.
A five-acre country park with play areas, footpaths, and viewing platforms over the canal is also part of the project.
In their decision, the inspector attached “very substantial weight” to the benefits from more housing, including 54 designated affordable units, due to “chronic under supply and staggering levels of affordability” in the area.
Rectory Farm CGI. (Image: Cala Homes)
Kings Langley and District Residents Association had fought to prevent the scheme, which gathered 173 objections when it was proposed, from going ahead.
Reacting to the result in May, a spokesperson said: “This is deeply disappointing given the renewed emphasis on protecting the green belt around London.
“Instead, the planning inspector has chosen to allow the appeal based on just the housing numbers.
“Kings Langley has taken a large number of new homes over the last few years which has already put incredible strain on the local infrastructure.”
Cala has committed to establishing a Community Pledge on the new development. To help it understand local needs, the developer is welcoming thoughts and feedback via ChilternPledge@cala.co.uk .
