Flitton

DLA Town Planning successfully secured outline planning permission for 37 dwellings in Flitton, Bedfordshire.  Central Bedfordshire Council refused the planning application in January 2019, the appeal was considered at a hearing in October 2019 and the planning permission granted in March 2020.  Throughout the process the team ensured the client was fully informed of the progress of the application and appeal.

The Inspector was clear in his appeal decision that “the location of the site is suitable for housing with regard to its accessibility to shops, services and facilities by means of transport other than the private motor vehicle, and based on the indicative layout and subject to conditions and reserved matters, development could be achieved at this location without harming the overall character and appearance of the area.”

The appeal submission was supported by a Socio-Economic Statement which demonstrated that the proposal would have economic benefits in the short to medium term through the provision of jobs and local purchasing during the construction period. Once complete the development would increase the local population, thus increasing spending levels in local businesses and services.  This in turn will help maintain Flitton and also support nearby settlements.  DLA would recommend obtaining such statements to support applications and appeals.