Questions raised over plans for new homes in Ulverston

In June last year Rowland Homes Ltd proposed a 235-house development on Gascow Farm, in Priory Road, Ulverston.

Twelve months down the line, and after three decision deadline extensions, town councillors are still searching for answers.

At a meeting of Ulverston Town Council on Monday, Councillor Amanda Rigg, who represents the town's South ward, said: "I still say this (development) is over extensive and not required at the present time."

Councillor Norman Bishop-Rowe, also of the South ward, added: "I would agree with Cllr Rigg. This is an intensive development. The district council in the local planning framework identified that this land has quite a lot of anomalies. They've found quite a lot of ancient artefacts, there is an aquifer running right through the site, and at least 20 houses are to be built on, or very close to it."

The 28-acre greenfield site will accommodate of range of houses, if the application is approved by council bosses.

However, since June 2016 when it was first submitted, three separate applications have been made to extend the council's decision deadline: on October 25 2016, May 27 this year, and May 10.

One of the most recent objections submitted on the South Lakeland District Council planning portal is from the Ulverston Civic Society.

The local group has highlighted issues with the plan to use red brick, instead of light stone, for construction, the plan to build over a culvert, and the ever-present fear of flooding.

Their statement said: "We are concerned how this large area of currently fields will cope with drainage once covered in roads and houses."

Town councillors voted to defer the vote on the development until their questions could be answered.

Read more about housing in Ulverston:

Town councillors reject plan that would turn South Ulverston into a "ghetto".

Ulverston flood works aim to protect future homes.

Read our story from last year about the major plan to build hundreds of houses in Ulverston.