Controversy over climate change not stopping proposed development by Cheltenham homes
The planned development of over 300 new homes at Shurdington Road, Cheltenham, is set to be the focus of a planning inquiry scheduled for 10am on 4 July at the Municipal Offices in Promenade.
Miller Homes, a development organisation with a history of building thousands of homes across England, submitted plans to build 350 new homes, including 140 affordable units, on 44.6 acres of land at Shurdington Road, Cheltenham. The original plans, however, did not align with the council's plans to address the current climate crisis, as they included fitting the homes with gas boilers.
This led to the local authority's rejection of the plans. Miller Homes, in response, has challenged the decision, leading to the planned inquiry.
The development plans for Shurdington Road include new cycleways, footpaths, a public open space, children's play area, a community orchard, and allotments. The plans also propose a significant reduction in reliance on gas boilers.
Paul Hill, an independent planning consultant, supports the plans and states that the scheme proposed a 31% reduction of CO2 emissions beyond what is required by building regulations. This reduction, Hill argues, is a step towards addressing the climate crisis and aligning with the new rules published by the government in early 2022, which aim to cut carbon emissions of new builds by 30% compared to current standards.
Several councillors, at a meeting in April 2022, deemed the proposed scheme as 'a kick in the teeth of the town's bid to tackle climate change'. However, the authority for Environment and Planning in Cheltenham has the decision-making power to approve or reject planning applications such as Miller Homes' proposal, following their revision and submission.
Residents have the opportunity to speak at the upcoming planning inquiry if they notify the council before the meeting. The inquiry is intended to decide whether permission should be granted for the construction of the 350 new homes.
The development, if approved, would result in the creation of a new community with a variety of amenities, including affordable housing, outdoor spaces, and sustainable features. The outcome of the planning inquiry will be significant for the future of the development and the town's approach to sustainable housing.
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