Support for controversial housing scheme

Plans to build 79 affordable new homes in Stalmine have led to strong objections in the village – but the scheme does have some support too.

The proposals for the affordable homes in Stalmine have been lodged with Wyre Council by applicants Maybern Planning and Development, on behalf of Westchurch Homes.

The applicants argue that the plans will offer vital affordable housing, new jobs and support local businesses.

But many villagers do not see it that way.

Stalmine-with-Staynall Parish Council says applications are being allowed without the proper provisions such as schools, GP surgeries or highway considerations and are harming the village.

Other opponents of the plans say it will will ruin an unspoilt greenfield site which is home to precious wildlife, including the protected Great Crested Newt, where its DNA evidence has been discovered in a pond.

There are also flooding concerns, highway worries and biodiversity issues.

However, resident Stephen Howard believes the housing plans will be good for the area and that the flooding concerns cited as a reason for objection could easily be rectified.

Mr Howard said: “As one of the landowners and a long-term local resident, I feel it is important to provide some context about the land itself and the drainage issues that have been mentioned locally.

“The field has not traditionally been prone to flooding. The small amount of groundwater that has been seen in recent years appears to be the result of a dyke which was previously filled.

“That dyke historically played an important role in carrying water away from the land and into the main dyke that runs all the way to Wardleys Creek.

“Since the dyke was infilled, there has been nowhere for the water to naturally drain. As a result, some standing water has appeared on the field.

“The issue is relatively straightforward to address. Reconnecting the dyke back into the main dyke that runs to Wardleys Creek would restore the natural drainage route and allow the water to flow away as it previously did.

“There are valid points as to why this development should go ahead.”

The proposals are expected to go before Wyre’s planning committee on a date to be decided.