Plans to build 140 new homes on more than 18 acres at Poolway Farm, off Gloucester Road in Coleford, Gloucestershire, have been approved by the Forest of Dean District Council despite concerns raised by local residents.
The development by Freeman Homes will feature a mix of two to five-bedroom houses, with the historic farmhouse on the site preserved. However, several redundant farm buildings around it will be demolished to make room for the new residences.
The council’s development management committee initially considered the proposal in October but revisited it on January 20 to discuss additional clauses. These provisions specify that no viability review or affordable housing contribution will be required if the project is completed within four years or if at least 56 affordable homes—equivalent to 80% of the total—are provided by the time 112 homes are occupied.
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Local objections centered on environmental and community impacts. Beverly Sinclair voiced concerns about the removal of a hedgerow and its “devastating” effects on local wildlife, as well as the proposed changes to a footpath linking the Gorse to Gloucester Road—a vital pedestrian route popular with dog walkers.
Meanwhile, Marilyn Cox from Coleford Town Council raised issues about the project timeline, emphasizing the need for a viability report should the affordable housing quota not be met. She also highlighted potential flooding risks if construction proceeds before completion of the nearby roundabout and access road.
In response, Bridget Westcott, a chartered town planner representing Freeman Homes, emphasized that the scheme had not physically changed since its initial presentation. She explained that the review mechanism concerns financial viability, with a four-year exemption agreed upon to reduce risk and unlock necessary lender funding. Independent assessments confirmed the scheme is currently technically unviable, necessitating this approach. Westcott also noted that the developer is actively seeking grants to fund the affordable housing component.
Council officers recommended approval, citing the overall benefits of the development as outweighing its negative impacts and addressing the district’s pressing need for new housing. Ultimately, councillors voted unanimously to grant permission for the project to proceed.