New homes for village despite residents' pleas

At an East Lindsey planning committee meeting, members gave the thumbs-up to an outline application by HJW Developments to build on an arable field off Poor’s End in Grainthorpe, despite the concerns of the parish council and an objection petition containing 104 signatures.

Originally the intention was for 24 homes but this was reduced following objections by the parish council that such a number would be too intensive for a site of just under one hectare.

In a presentation to councillors, resident Paula Fussey said there was a concern that some existing properties could have their privacy sacrificed through being overlooked by 
incomers whose homes 
would be on higher ground.

She also expressed concerns at the narrowness of the access lane which was already causing problems 
for refuse and delivery vehicles, especially at the 
tight junction adjacent to a Grade II Listed property.

Coun Jill Makinson-Sanders protested at the constant “chipping away” at agricultural land. She said: “As a nation, we need feeding.”

Coun Makinson-Sanders went on to complain that proposals to widen the lane would have the effect of “urbanising” the countryside - especially if the new homes turn out to be town houses.

But Coun Tom Ashton and Coun Sid Dennis both spoke in favour, with the former commending the applicant for agreeing to reduce the density.

Agent Andrew Clover said the new homes would be set in large gardens, and there would be no impact 
on neighbours’ amenities.

He continued: “The risk 
of flooding is low.”

Committee chairman Coun Neil Cooper suggested that the developer might like to consider installing street lighting - if desired by residents - as a result of ELDC’s imminent withdrawal from street lighting activities.

The committee noted that Lincolnshire County Council’s archaeology officer had expressed concerns that human remains might be encountered during groundworks because of the proximity to the Ebenezer Wesleyan chapel that was built in 1818 
to seat 237 worshippers.

However a subsequent investigation detailing the historic boundaries of the chapel has indicated that this is unlikely to be the case.

On Thursday. the committee voted nine-two in favour.