Controversial development returns (From Maldon and Burnham Standard)

Controversial development returns

5:28am Wednesday 7th May 2008

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A CONTROVERSIAL planning application could re-ignite disputes between developers and residents in the Heybridge Basin.

Melodian Ltd have submitted a new planning application, to Maldon District Council, just three months after a planning inspector rejected a previous application and while many windows in the area still have the poster displayed reading: "Say no to Lock Hill Development."

The new application is for a mixed development with 13 homes, commercial planning application shows a mix of shops and offices, car parking and landscaping on the former boatyard in the Heybridge Basin.

A letter, from chartered planners for the developers Andrew Martin Associates to Maldon District Council's planning officer Peter Le Grys, states: "This planning application follows extensive pre-application consultation with yourself and Jackie Longman council officer. This application has taken into careful account the issues raised through the planning appeals decision Jan 11, 2006."

And the Design and Access statement reads: "The opportunity exists to provide a high quality residential development meeting both the market and local housing needs as well as assisting in meeting national targets.

"The use of previously developed land, or brownfield sites such as this, is entirely consistent with all best practice relating to the provision of new housing."

The previous application, rejected by planning inspector John Papworth in January, was for a mixed development with 13 homes, two shops, offices, car parking and associated landscaping.

It was rejected due to the effect on the character and appearance on the conservation area, the effect on the setting of listed buildings, the effect on the privacy of neighbouring residents, the lack of open space of a required quality and doubts about whether the scheme would qualify under up to date flooding guidance.

The Heybridge Basin Conservation Society hired a consultant to speak on their behalf at the previous inquiry and the group have been sent a copy of the plans.

Maldon District Council confirmed an application had been received.

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