'The village can't cope': Anger over plans for another 150 homes in Earls Barton
Plans for another 150 homes in Earls Barton have prompted dozens of objections, with residents warning that further development could overwhelm village services and change its character.
Clayson Country Homes has submitted an outline application for land off Doddington Road to North Northamptonshire Council, following a public consultation.
The proposal is one of four housing schemes being considered or proposed around the village. Richborough and William Davis have put forward schemes totalling up to 250 homes near Northampton Road, while Redrow is proposing another 600 near Dowthorpe Hill.
Together, the developments could deliver up to 1,250 properties if approved.
So far, 65 comments have been published on the Doddington Road application, all opposing it. Residents have raised concerns about pressure on roads, schools and healthcare, alongside noise, wildlife, privacy and the loss of countryside.
The concerns extend beyond nearby households, with objectors questioning whether the village can accommodate the combined scale of proposed new housing.
One objector warned: “Earls Barton is an historic village that is increasingly in danger of ceasing to exist as such.”
They argued the schemes should be assessed together because of their cumulative impact on the village and neighbouring communities.
Another resident said: “This is a village, not a town, and we want it to stay that way.”
The objector also claimed local doctors, schools and infrastructure were already under pressure.
A parent living near the proposed site said the development would bring new homes and a road close to their property, affecting family life and privacy.
They said: “Building all these houses would significantly impact our family life, privacy and tarnish the lovely countryside fields surrounding our home.”
Clayson Country Homes proposes a mixture of housing sizes and types, with 40 per cent designated as affordable housing.
The developer says existing greenery and open spaces would be retained where possible, with pedestrian links connecting homes to open space and play areas.
Residents opposing the plans are organising information sessions at Earls Barton Church Hall on November 2 and 5, from 5pm to 7pm; November 6 and 9, from 5.30pm to 7pm; and November 12, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.
Visitors can find out about the proposal and how to submit comments.
The application has not yet been approved. Further details are available on North Northamptonshire Council's planning portal under reference 26/02838/OUT.