A HOUSING development poised to create jobs and support businesses has been given the thumbs up - despite flooding concerns.

West End Nurseries housing development in Ulverston has been granted planning permission to build five more properties alongside its already approved 87 new homes.

The development, which is located just off West End Lane and close to Siemans factory, will comprise of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes.

However, the site, headed by Story Homes, is classed as a medium flood risk area, causing concern among councillors and residents.

Ulverston Town Councillor Andrew Butcher said the development will have a ‘knock on effect’ for other areas at risk of flooding in the town.

He said: “I am against any houses which are built near a flood plain.

“There is going to be a knock on effect and we may see some flooding around Priory Road because of this development.

“I would like to see houses built in the right area where there is a real demand and I don’t think there is in that part of Ulverston.”

However, fellow town councillor, Mark Wilson, has welcomed the decision.

“I’m always pleased to see housing developments in Ulverston,” he said.

“With a new facility moving into the GSK site, there will be more workers and more demand for housing.

“The Environment Agency and the local flood agency are satisfied the development does not stray into flood zone territory.

“I’m pleased to see the extra houses added and believe all the concerns have been dealt with by the regulatory bodies.”

The Environment Agency has raised no objection to the plans and has confirmed that the applicants have demonstrated to their satisfaction that the development would be compliant with national and local policy in terms of flood risk.

A Story Homes spokeswoman said the development will support existing local businesses and create additional employment.

She said: “Our original planning application was for 87 homes, however the site was initially allocated for 92 homes – we therefore welcome the decision by South Lakeland District Council to grant planning permission for an additional five properties.

“These homes will form part of the wider Laurel Place development which will support existing local businesses and help create additional employment through opportunities for local subcontractors and the supply chain.

“With regards to any concerns about flooding, Story Homes produced a robust Flood Risk Assessment and Drainage Strategy which was submitted as part of the approved planning application.

“The application was scrutinised twice by both the Environment Agency and Lead Local Flood Authority who found that the development would not exacerbate flooding elsewhere in the area. The site was found to be suitable for development and as such, was granted detailed planning permission. We anticipate that the first legal completions of properties at Laurel Place will take place in Autumn 2021.”