MP calls for change after appeal to allow 1,325 homes in Warwick

The Conservative member of Parliament for Warwick and Leamington voiced opposition to plans for the two major housing developments off Europa Way when they were rejected by district planners back in 2014.

Both appeals were this month upheld by secretary of state for local government, Greg Clark to help meet the district’s housing shortage in the absence of a Local Plan for housing.

Describing the decisions as of “serious concern” and urging for them to be reconsidered for the sake of “localism”, Mr White said: “Warwick District Council was on the verge of submitting a revised Local Plan when your decision was announced. Your decision will serve to delay this process further.

“I believe that we should promote localism as much as possible and it is clear that the planning authority objects to these applications on the grounds set out in the appeals.

“It is of not that the strength of feeling of residents against these plans is significant and should be a consideration of the utmost importance.

“The decision to overturn the inspector’s decision both undermines the consultation process and calls into question the purpose of the inspector. I fear this will damage confidence in the planning system.

“Traffic congestion is already an issue and to add 1,325 dwellings would have serious consequences for the town.

“I will wholeheartedly support any challenge the local authority wishes to make as this issue is of huge significance to our area.

“I urge you to reconsider.”

The district council can now appeal the decisions or proceed with its Local Plan inclusive of the extra housing.

Council leader, Andrew Mobbs said: “We are seeking legal clarification over implications of decisions we may or may not make from here.”