Planning Application

TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990 APPEAL UNDER SECTION 78 Site Address: Proposed Residential Development Land West Of, Woodhill Road, Highley, Shropshire. Description of development: Proposed Residential Development (Accessible Dwellings) and Associated Works (Outline with all matters reserved) Application reference: 25/02350/OUT Appellant’s name: Mr Harry Scriven Appeal/Planning Inspectorate ref: 6006953 Council Appeal reference: 26/03473/REF Appeal start date: 1 April 2026 I refer to the above details. An appeal has been made to the Secretary of State against the decision of Shropshire Council to refuse to grant planning permission for the above proposal. The appeal will be determined on the basis of written representations. The procedure to be followed is set out in Part 2 of the Town and Country Planning (Appeals) (Written Representations Procedure) (England) Regulations 2009, as amended. We have forwarded all the representations made to us on the application to the Planning Inspectorate and the appellant. These will be considered by the Inspector when determining the appeal. If you wish to make comments, or modify/withdraw your previous representation, you can do so online at https://appeal-planning-decision.service.gov.uk/comment-planning-appeal/enter-appeal-reference. Highley Parish Council OBJECT to this appeal and maintains its original position that planning permission should be refused. The Planning Committee represents the views of the community and the evidence presented to it. Outside the Settlement Boundary / Development in the Countryside The site lies outside the defined settlement boundary for Highley and therefore constitutes development in the countryside, contrary to the adopted development plan. There is no policy justification for residential development in this location. Sustainable Drainage Principles The land has known drainage constraints, and no clear evidence has been provided to demonstrate that sustainable drainage can be achieved without increasing surface‑water run‑off or affecting neighbouring properties. Highways and Access Concerns Access onto Woodhill Road has restricted visibility and limited width. The proposal would introduce additional vehicle movements at a point where safe access is already difficult. The constrained nature of the site also raises concerns about turning space for residents, refuse vehicles and emergency services. Environmental Networks, Natural Networks and Landscaping The site forms part of a wider natural and environmental network. The proposal does not demonstrate how these networks would be protected or enhanced, and no meaningful landscaping or ecological mitigation has been provided. This would be detrimental to the landscape character. Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and Long‑Term Management The proposal does not adequately demonstrate how the mandatory minimum 10% Biodiversity Net Gain, required under the Environment Act 2021, would be achieved or secured. The submitted information does not provide sufficient evidence that a measurable net gain would result from the development, nor does it set out how long‑term management, monitoring, or stewardship arrangements—such as a management company—would be secured or funded. Without a clear and enforceable mechanism to deliver and maintain BNG for the statutory 30‑year period, the proposal fails to accord with the requirements of the Environment Act 2021. Any further improvement should contribute to wider green and blue infrastructure networks within the conservation area. Poor‑Quality Public Open Space The plot is too limited to provide adequate garden or amenity space, resulting in a poor‑quality living environment for future occupants. The proposal does not meet expected standards for usable public or private open space. Conclusion For these reasons, Highley Parish Council respectfully requests that the Planning Inspector dismiss the appeal. If you do not have access to the internet, you can send your comments to: The Planning Inspectorate, Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Bristol, BS1 6PN. All representations must be received by 6 May 2026. Any representations submitted after the deadline will not usually be considered and will be returned. The Planning Inspectorate does not acknowledge representations. All representations must quote the appeal reference. Please note that any representations you submit to the Planning Inspectorate will be copied to the appellant and this local planning authority and will be considered by the Inspector when determining the appeal. The appeal documents can be inspected on the Council’s online Planning Register https://pa.shropshire.gov.uk/online-applications/ and click on the Appeals section before searching or https://pa.shropshire.gov.uk/online-applications/search.do?action=simple&searchType=Appeal