Plans for 46 homes in village near Boston rejected following public opposition

The application to develop the housing site on land next to the William Lovell CofE Academy, in Main Road, Stickney, was brought before East Lindsey District Council’s planning committee on Thursday.

It followed concerns over encroachment into open countryside and significant public interest, with 38 formal objections from neighbours.

Developers argued that the proposal would improve the quality and types of homes in the area and would not detract from the distinctive character of the locality. They suggested that it would enhance the character and utilise features on the site that complement the location.

However, resident Ms Hopkins pointed out that houses are simply not selling in the village.

She remarked: “Even starter homes are going up for auction due to lack of interest.”

Ms Hopkins also argued that the field is permanently flooded and feared that more concrete would reduce drainage, further increasing the flood risk to the village.

Coun Tom Ashton, ward councillor, urged the planning committee to reject the proposal.

The Conservative member said: “In my view, it is harmful to the local amenity, harmful to the setting and form of the settlement, and harmful to the appearance of the surrounding countryside.”

“This is a settlement which has already seen by far its fair share of developments,” he added.

Independent member Coun Ruchira Yarsley quickly proposed refusing the application due to overdevelopment of the village.

Although it is considered a large village, Ms Hopkins insisted that it still lacked good public transport and a pub.

Coun Daniel McNally, also a Conservative member, reluctantly proposed approving the plans, explaining that they were unable to refuse the application due to concerns around flooding, as no issues had been raised by stakeholders such as Anglian Water.

Nevertheless, the committee ultimately decided to reject the application.