A HOUSING developer has been accused of wanting to build a "ghetto" in a south Cumbrian town.

Ulverston town councillors unanimously voted to reject a planning proposal to build 108 properties in the south of the town.

Councillors say Oakmere Homes should not be allowed to build on the site, at the bottom of Sir John Barrow Way, until serious concerns over flooding and property design are addressed.

Dozens of residents crowded into the Supper Room of the Coronation Hall on Monday night to voice their concerns about the development.

Addressing the councillors, resident Kevin Higgs spoke out against the proposed apartment block which could be built on site.

He said: "The proposed building is at best ugly and, at worst, offensive."

Cllr Colin Pickthall echoed this sentiment, adding: "Is this their suggestion to us? A block of flats in the middle of a flood plain? I think it is an insult to the town, I think it must be some kind of twisted joke."

In an updated planning application submitted by Oakmere, a range of two-storey semi-detached houses would include a three-storey apartment complex to meet the company's obligation to provide affordable housing.


Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Pickthall said: "They are creating little ghettos in the development, and treating people with disdain."

Deep concerns have also been aired over the land's suitability for development. South Ulverston is currently being surveyed by the Environment Agency, which is mapping the flood patterns in the area.

A so-called "triple threat" of fluvial, pluvial and tidal flooding affected the area according to mayor Mark Wilson.

The council was unanimous in its belief that no construction of any kind should take place in south Ulverston until the EA survey is concluded.

Frustration was also expressed at poor access to the site. As it stands, there will only be one entrance to the site, from Sir John Barrow Way. Opponents of the plan have said this will cause gridlock, and pose a danger to pedestrians during busy times.

Oakmere homes was approached for comment, but did not respond before the Evening Mail's deadline.

Read more about flooding in Ulverston:

A huge civic engineering project seeks to protect Ulverston from future flooding

Read about the initial housing proposal for the Lund Farm site