Plans to build eight bungalows on Green Belt land have been submitted.

A Plant Homes Ltd is seeking outline planning permission for the development in a field off Old Road, between Trentham and Barlaston.

The land is currently used for equestrian purposes, and lies outside the Barlarston settlement boundary.

But the applicant argues that the proposal would not be inappropriate development as the site meets the definition of grey belt.

According to the planning statement, there is a 'substantial shortfall' in deliverable housing land in Stafford borough, and the scheme would help meet a 'specific need' for housing for the elderly.

It would consist of two and three bedroom bungalows served by a new cul-de-sac off Old Road.

The application says that the land includes an area of hardstanding and so should be considered 'previously developed land'.

It also argues that the site does not make a strong contribution to the Green Belt, such as by preventing the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas, and so should be seen as grey belt.

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The application states: "This proposal for bungalows would not only provide much needed housing, but it would also meet a specific identified housing type need in a sustainable location within walking distance of services within Barlaston, a key service village.

"It has been demonstrated that the site would comprise grey belt land and would not be inappropriate development in the Green Belt."

While the field lies within Stafford Borough Council, the development site also includes Stoke-on-Trent City Council adopted highway, and so applications have been submitted to both authorities.

The proposals will be considered by planners over the coming weeks.

Header image via Jonathan Hutchins on Geograph