Telford & Wrekin Council has refused a proposal to build four affordable bungalows in the village of New Works, following significant objections from residents. The application, submitted by waste management company Veolia, sought permission in principle to develop its disused depot site off Church Hill.
Strong Local Opposition Halts Development
The plan provoked a substantial backlash from the small community. Residents from 19 separate households formally objected to the council's planning officers, arguing the development would damage the area's character. One objector, a fourth-generation family member now living in Lanark, Scotland, wrote of their "deep ties to the village and its heritage," stating there had "never been a demonstrated need for further development here."
Another local argued the settlement was "pretty united" against the proposal, calling on planners to act as a "safety net." Concerns extended beyond the immediate site, with one resident stating New Works had already borne the impact of Lawley's growth, citing increased traffic, disruption, and a rise in anti-social behaviour.
Safety and Sustainability Concerns Raised
Traffic safety emerged as a key worry, particularly for elderly residents. One 80-year-old objector detailed "many near misses from speeding cars" over four decades and expressed fear that more homes would be a "disaster." They highlighted a very personal risk: "I cannot climb the verges to get out of the way of speeding cars when I walk the dog."
Planning consultant Heatons, acting for Veolia, had argued the scheme would "benefit both the company and the local community" by making a positive contribution to affordable housing in a rural area. They contended that the site was appropriate for residential development and that New Works was a "sustainable location within the rural context of Telford."
Council Cites Lack of Evidence and Unsustainable Location
However, council officials rejected this assessment. They determined that the applicant failed to provide sufficient evidence demonstrating an identified local housing need for the properties. Crucially, officials classified New Works as an "unsustainable location due to its lack of facilities."
The authority's policy only supports small-scale affordable housing developments if they meet a proven local requirement. In their decision, officers stated: "Whilst some weight can be given to the provision of self-build dwellings, the self-build status of the development would not override the requirement to comply with adopted policies." The proposal was therefore turned down, siding with the concerted voice of the village residents.
