Fresh bid launched for homes plan on 'nasty bend' near Coalville

A fresh bid to build homes on a "nasty bend" near Coalville has been launched. Previous proprosals were withdrawn amid criticism from residents, with the latest plans also attracting concerns about its impacts.

The plan, from Steve Boam, is a full application of previously outlined proposals for land at Main Street in Swannington, near Coalville. In all, he wants to erect five "self-build" homes on the site which he says is currently "grassland". Swannington Parish Council believes the land could be returned to its former use as a "local wildlife site" instead.

If approved, the homes would all be at least four-bed detached homes and come with two parking spaces each. Planning documents reveal they will each have a private amenity space too, while a small front lawn would also be included.

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The plans sparked controversy last year when they first emerged, with residents claiming Main Street was prone to speeding vehicles, making access to the new homes unsafe, especially given the "nasty bend" the homes would be based on. They also raised fears about flooding in the area. Mr Boam went on to withdraw the plan amid the growing concerns.

Now, Duckworth Design and Planning, on behalf of Mr Boam, claim there is "significant interest in the plots" and believe the homes would make best use of the "underutilised site". Concerns remains from residents and parish councillors about the proposal though.

In its opposition, Swannington Parish Council claimed the homes would "harm the character of the village". They believed the grassland "positively" contributed to the "semi-rural" character of the village and should be maintained.

It added: "This site was, and could be again a local wildlife site. This site is the last piece of land left on this side of Main Street. It would also result in this section of Main Street becoming a ribbon development."

Duckworth Design and Planning, disagrees. It believes the scheme would benefit the village.

It said: "The proposal will provide additional choice of housing options for custom and self-builders to a popular village and act as a quality gateway into the village."

The plan will be decided by North West Leicestershire District Council at a later date.

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