SAFETY fears have been raised over two planning applications which could see more than 400 new homes built in Stourport.
Wyre Forest District Council have received a proposal to build up to 331 houses on land to the west of Pearl Lane, and another to build 110 homes at Coniston Crescent.
However, objectors have voiced their concerns over the proposals on the council's planning website, which were both received January 13.
One objector to the Pearl Lane project, which is being developed by Barratt Homes, said: "The roads are not suitable for extra traffic and the bridge would not cope. There are is traffic queues now." Another said: "It will ruin the landscape and quietness of the area".
Residents have also highlighted that the land is 'renowned for flooding' and is 'not fit for building'. There has also been a petition against development plans.
Barratt Homes say the plans would bring much needed homes to the area. A spokesperson said: “Following a public consultation in December 2019, much consideration has been given to the development which would comprise 331 properties, with 25 per cent affordable housing and 40 per cent of the site being allocated to public open space.
“The application is accompanied by a Transport Assessment and Flood Risk Assessment to allow the local authority to review these matters before determining the application.”
Elsewhere, developers Taylor Wimpey plan to build a housing estate at the former Stourport Sixth Form Centre site off Coniston Crescent.
By far the single biggest issue is the claim that the extra traffic generated will cause major congestion and potential danger. This is because access to the new Windermere Grange estate is planned to be sited next to the entrance to Burlish Primary School.
Some people say they don’t object to the extra houses, but cannot understand the sense behind the access route. Many believe that the council would insist on access via Kingsway Lane.
A resident of Coniston Crescent for nearly 40 years said there has been many ‘near misses’ because of the number of cars, and more traffic would increase the danger.
“I fear it won't be long until we have several fatal accidents in the area,” they said.
Another said: “My child has nearly been run over on several occasions as cars trying to get to school have driven along the pavement. Adding morning traffic from over 100 properties is going to cause chaos and more danger to children trying to walk to school.”
A Taylor Wimpey spokesperson said: “We understand and appreciate the local community’s concerns with the proposed access point at Coniston Crescent. We have included this within our proposals for the site of the former Stourport Sixth Form Centre, as we believe it is a viable and technically deliverable option.
“We will be entering into discussions with Wyre Forest District Council and Stourport Town Council with regards to reviewing the Kingsway as an alternative access point for this proposed development.”
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