Green light for plans to build more than 200 homes at huge housing development on edge of Northampton

West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has given planning permission to build another 233 homes on a large residential development.

Housing developer Vistry Group asked to bring forward another planned package of homes as part of its Western Gate development near Harpole, which will see more than 1,000 homes built so far out of a planned 1,900 at the Norwood Farm Sustainable Urban Extension (SUE).

Plans for the entire site were granted in 2020, with associated infrastructure including a local centre, primary school and open space.

This phase of development will include 76 affordable units and 157 market homes. Just one letter of objection was received.

Speaking at the planning meeting, Steven Trythall, representing Vistry Group, told committee members: “Perhaps the most significant benefit is the additional 33 affordable homes that will be provided within this parcel, again with a mix of rented and shared ownership.

“This means that 33 percent – more than double that required on the Norwood Farm site – will be delivered as affordable homes within this application. I think you’ll all agree that’s a very significant benefit.”

He added that the proposals would create a “characterful and well-considered development” that would be “a sought-after place to live”.

WNC planning officers recommended that councillors grant permission subject to conditions, stating that the principle of development had already been established by the original outline permission and that “there would be no sustainable reasons for refusing this application”.

The plans were approved by WNC’s strategic planning committee on Tuesday November 18.