Local residents will be aware of the history to this decision, but in summary, the Borough Council refused two planning applications submitted by Muller Homes (12/3746N and 12/3747N) for development on land between Audlem Road/Broad Lane and Peter de Stapleigh Way.
This was eventually referred to the then Secretary of State, Eric Pickles who dismissed the appeal on 17 March 2015. Muller Homes challenged that decision in the High Court under what is known as a S.288 appeal.
The Department for Communities and Local Government has now informed the Parish Council that both appeals have been refused.
Matthew Theobald, Chairman of the Parish Council, said “It has been a long, protracted wait, but we are all delighted with the result, and I am sure that this will also be good news for residents. As Chairman of the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group also, I was heartened to see that the Secretary of State has reached the view that no matter how well-landscaped, a housing development on this land would change the character of the parish for the worse. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the local MP, Edward Timpson and the local Ward Councillors, Peter Groves and Andrew Martin and, of course, all the local groups and residents who have supported us in our efforts to fight the appeal.”

The appeal decision from the Department of Communities and Local Government is available here.