Spalding Monks House Lane 70-home development set for approval despite wildlife, security and traffic concerns

Plans for a 70-home development on former nursery land at the north-western edge of Spalding look set to be approved, despite concerns over wildlife, security and traffic.

Members of South Holland District Council’s planning committee have been recommended to approve the proposed housing development on the former Ivanda Nursery site off Monks House Lane.

After discussions with the planning department, the initial proposal for 76 homes from Seagate Homes was revised to 70, accompanied by updates to the overall layout and house types.

The revised application includes six one-bedroom houses, 28 two-bedroom homes, 30 three-bedroom dwellings, and six four-bedroom houses, spanning over 2.3 hectares.

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Seagate’s planning statement explained: “The site is adjoined on three sides by existing residential estate development, forms part of a large residential neighbourhood on the western side of the town.

“The locality, with the exception of the nursery, is wholly residential in character, and a suitably scaled residential development will remove what has become a non-conforming use within the built-up area, and will be consistent with the established characteristics of the area.”

However, local residents, councillors and MP Sir John Hayes MP, have raised concerns about the potential impact of the development on nearby wildlife habitats and an increase in traffic congestion in the area.

“The loss of wildlife and their habitats is a major worry for my constituents,” wrote Sir John. “Many having reported seeing bats, owls, deer and newts in the area; it is so important that these species are not displaced or, indeed, lost forever.

“My constituents have [also] raised security concerns. In particular, the plan identifies a footpath which appears to run from Edward Road along the rear of properties at The Chantry. Will they be open to the public and be used as a thoroughfare through to Monks House Lane?

“Furthermore, the proposed road connection may also become a shortcut for school traffic.”

Stephen Timewell, former district councillor and Spalding Flower Parade organiser, also said he was apprehensive about potential future expansions of the development.

He commented: “I am concerned that there is an option for further development in the future whereby this new cul de sac could be opened up and lead to further housing. This should be discouraged as the traffic situation would become out of hand and unmanageable for Monks House Lane.”

He added: “I am concerned that the development is on a flood plain and whilst the developers have examined the risk of flooding and mitigated against it, we need further assurances that counter measures will be in place.”

SHDC’s planning committee will decide if the proposed 70-home development goes ahead at their upcoming meeting on Wednesday, February 7.

What do you think? Should the plans go ahead? Post your thoughts in the comments below