A HOUSING development on the outskirts of Ludlow will provide a greater proportion of affordable housing in the scheme than is required by Shropshire Council.

Under the plans approved following a planning appeal, a quarter of the homes will be affordable – designated as being for rent or shared ownership.

Strategic land promotion company, Richborough Estates has secured planning consent a new housing scheme near Ludlow.

The 43-acre site just off Foldgate Lane has been planned for 137 new homes, 25 per cent of which will be affordable, in excess of the 15 per cent required under Shropshire’s planning policy.

While the total site covers 43 acres, 13.7 acres will be developed for housing with 64 per cent of the site given over to open green spaces including an orchard and a play area.

“The design for this development makes the most of its location on the southern edge of Ludlow, with great access from the A49 which will connect the new development to the wider transport network,” said James Bradshaw of Richborough Estates.

“Historically, Ludlow has suffered from an undersupply of affordable housing and our plans to include an additional 10 per cent above requirement in this scheme will go some way to ensuring that there are sufficient affordable homes available for local people in the area.”

Under Shropshire’s Local Plan, which prioritises and shapes development in the county until 2026, it is estimated that there will be a shortfall of approximately 23,000 houses in that period.

“While the planning inspector concluded that Shropshire can demonstrate a five-year supply of housing supply at the present time, these figures represent a minimum level and additional sustainable developments such as this, delivering additional public benefits will be absolutely crucial in helping the country as a whole reach its housing targets,” added James Bradshaw.

Richborough Estates will now seek a housebuilder to acquire the site and deliver the approved scheme.