CONTROVERSIAL plans to build 270 homes in Stratford have been given the green light.
Earlier this year the proposals to build on Arden Heath Farm off Loxley Road were rejected.
But a planning inspector has decided the scheme by developers Gallagher Estates should go ahead.
In his report, David Nicholson said he believed the homes would not lead to traffic problems or affect air quality – the reasons it was refused last December.
Stratford District Council officers had recommended the proposals go ahead, but a last minute change of heart just before the application was due to go to planning committee saw Warwickshire highways authority inform council chiefs it wanted changes to proposed plans to deal with extra traffic.
They argued the initial plans could cause queuing on Clopton Bridge as well increasing traffic on the gyratory and other town roads.
Consequently, the scheme they had previously backed was opposed and following further advice from officers, planning committee members voted to refuse the application.
An overflow public gallery with a television screen had to be provided at the packed meeting for those who could not get into the main council chamber.
District coun for Bidford West, Mark Cargill expressed his disappointment about the decision.
He said: “It was a lengthy battle. I’m very disappointed and I believe the decision degrades the openness and character of space between Tiddington and Stratford.
“There is now a danger of coalescence between the areas. It is a great shame there will be more development.”
