Source:  Ledbury Reporter

TOO large and too close to industry was the scathing verdict by town councillors on plans for a major new housing development to the north of Bromyard. Marsten Developments plans to site 175 dwellings to the east of Tenbury Road and adjacent to Porthouse Industrial Estate - home to major town employer Polytec Holden.  (let us have your comments on this important issue.)

Mayor Jamie Jacobson, chairing the meeting of full council on Monday (December 18), said: “This is obviously one of the most difficult decisions this council has made in a long time.”

Herefordshire councillor for Bromyard, Alan Seldon, cited the Unitary Development Plan - which acts as a guideline for planning - recommending the Porthouse Farm site was not suitable for more than 87 houses.

He said he believed the planning application was merely a “fishing trip” by the developer.

Town councillor Ray Whittaker queried Marsten’s claims that residents of the new development would not be affected by heavy industry on the Porthouse Estate.

He said: “I understand the developer’s given assurances that the fumes and the noise will not be a problem but I’m taking that with a pinch of salt.”

Cllr Whittaker said he could hear the plant from his own home, adding: “What’s it going to be like for those residents? They’re going to complain about the factory and the factory will not be able to operate.”

Fellow councillor Mark Harper expressed concerns that Bromyard did not have the infrastructure in place to cope with the influx of people the development would bring.

He said: “If there is going to be housing I think we should try and force them to stick to the original 87 houses and have larger, better quality homes.”

Cllr Harper added his voice to those calling for a town meeting, saying: “This could make or break Bromyard.”

The 11.5 hectares plot would include a rugby pitch, two cricket pitches with a pavilion, two car parks and a youth centre.

Councillor Dave Cave proposed asking Herefordshire Council to refer the application to the Secretary of State for determination based on its departure from the UDP. This resolution was passed by six votes to two, with three abstentions.

Members of the public can comment on the current outline planning application until January 27.