HEREFORDSHIRE planners have given the go-ahead for developers to build 25 homes in a village near Leominster.

Applicant Matthew Brown submitted the plans to build the new estate on land between Chestnut Avenue and the Stockton Cross in Kimbolton.

Speaking at today’s (August 22) planning committee, councillor John Stone said if the scheme would help the village meet its housing target.

He said the mix of four to two-bedroom houses and bungalows was much more in keeping with the area than an executive style estate.

He said: “This is the most significant development for Kimbolton since the nearby Stockton Rise estate was built.

“It also represents a huge improvement compared with the earlier scheme.

“This time the Kimbolton residents have been fully and properly consulted.

“Kimbolton is a popular village to live in, so near to Leominster and stands to benefit in many ways from this development.”

Councillor Stone also raised concerns over land drainage at the site and the increase in traffic.

He said: “It is already a busy road, especially between the Stockton Cross and the A49.

“The speed of traffic in spite of the 30mph limit is frequently raised by residents.”

Councillor Philip Edwards said the scheme was a positive outcome and proposed approving it.

He said: “I welcome the footway improvements, the infrastructure although it is at the loss of the assurance of money for public open space.

“The additional condition will take care of the foul drainage.”

Councillor Felicity Norman said she broadly welcomed the scheme.

“It is clear that this is as good as we can get but there are a few comments and regrets.”

She said the drainage issue was a concern to many residents but welcomed the dialogue between the parish council and the community. “

Sadly we do quite often see quite disastrous situations which appear to have got that way because of lack of dialogue,” she said. “The loss of community orchard is to be regretted and I share the concerns about extra traffic.”

Councillor Norman stressed the need for improved pedestrian links to the A49. “I can remember a huge battle to get a footpath up to the school in the village many years ago.

“It was an absolute take your life into your hand situation at one time because of the narrow road and the banks on either side.”

The committee approved the proposals with 12 votes in favour and one abstention.