Controversial plans for 200 more houses in one of North Staffordshire's leafiest villages have been approved – on appeal. 

Newcastle Borough Council's planning committee had last year ignored its officers and rejected the Baldwins Gate scheme.

But developer Richborough Estates appealed that decision and has now been granted planning permission following an inquiry. It is understood that Whitmore Parish Council is dismayed but not surprised by the decision.

Now planning inspector Philip Mileham has overruled the council planning committee. He ruled that the council 'cannot demonstrate a five-year housing land supply' and revealed the developer has agreed to fund more buses between Newcastle-under-Lyme and Market Drayton following concerns raised by objectors.

The housing estate will also feature a nature trail, a community orchard, a park and allotments. It will also provide 50 affordable homes, an extra classroom at Baldwins Gate Primary School, and highways improvements.

The developer has agreed to fund more buses between Newcastle and Market Drayton in response to objections (Nub News).

Richborough Estates had applied for outline planning permission for the housing estate at Baldwins Gate Farm, having previously completed a 113-unit development on neighbouring land. The latest scheme attracted 191 letters of objection, with residents raising concerns over the impact of the new homes on the village, its roads and local services, and the loss of 'valuable' agricultural land.

Reacting to the planning appeal victory, Richborough Estate director Nick Jones said: This is a well-designed and attractive development that will help answer housing need in the area."

Richborough Estates was supported by Knights.

Knights planning partner Louise Thorne said: "This development is extremely well planned and designed to benefit existing and future residents. Importantly the plans also respect the local area – going above and beyond planning requirements for open space and the natural environment in the village."

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