Plans for up to 420 homes are being drawn up on the edge of Colburn despite ongoing concerns over congestion and a lack of infrastructure in the area.
Developer Keyland says it is preparing an outline planning application for housing on 20.8 hectares of agricultural land at Colburn Grange, near Catterick Garrison.
Details of the proposal have been published online by architects Spawforths.# with leaflets also being delivered in the area.
A spokesperson said: “The proposed development will comprise of up to 420 dwellings, across a mix of house types and sizes.
“The scheme will also include two vehicle access points, landscaping, ecological mitigation areas and public open space.”
“The scheme will deliver much-needed housing within the local area, which will include the provision of affordable and accessible housing.
“The proposed development will also boost the local economy through employment opportunities, construction value and expenditure from new residents.”
But Green Party councillor, Kevin Foster, who represents the Hipswell and Colburn division on North Yorkshire Council, has voiced concerns about the development.
The councillor, who has called for a relief road to ease congestion in the area, said: “The A6136 is already at breaking point. Traffic through Colburn and Catterick Garrison grinds to a halt most days.
“Adding hundreds more cars without fixing the road first would be reckless and irresponsible.”
He added: “I’m not against new homes, but they must be in the right place, with the right roads, schools, and services to support them.
“Paving over green fields while the A6136 is gridlocked isn’t progress — it’s poor planning.”
A consultation exercise has been launched ahead of the planning application being submitted by the developer, which is part of the Kelda Group which also includes Yorkshire Water.
A drop-in session to find out more about the scheme will be held at Colburn Village Hall on Thursday, November 20, from 3pm to 7.30pm.
The deadline for comments on the scheme is December 5, although a further statutory consultation will be held once the plans have been submitted.
For more information on the scheme, visit https://spawforths.co.uk/consultations/colburn-grange-engagement/
On a greenfield site!!!