PLANS to build 78 homes in Appleton Thorn are set to be refused over fears the move would have a 'detrimental impact' on school provision.

Bloor Homes had initially planned to build 79 properties on the Stretton Road land but the scheme was reduced by one property last month.

This evening, Wednesday, the development management committee will meet at the Town Hall to discuss and vote on the application.

More than 170 objections and 39 letters of support have been submitted from residents.

A planning statement in the council documents outlined the reasons for the recommendation of refusal.

It said: "The proposals fail to demonstrate that safe and efficient movements can be undertaken by heavy goods vehicles, or by refuse collections vehicles, and this would result in severe harm to road safety.

"The proposals would not deliver the measures required to support a development of this nature and scale, with regard to the provision of school places and affordable housing provision required by the council's adopted planning obligations supplementary planning document.

"Increasing the amount of housing in the area would have a detrimental impact on school provision given that appropriate amounts of commuted sums have not been agreed."

Planning officers said if the application was to be recommended for approval, commuted sums of around £48,500 would be required to enhance sustainable transport, as well as £10,000 for the provision of bus shelters and associated works.

For education, contributions of £298,536 for primary provision and £242,565 for secondary provision would be required and a contribution of £60,909 for health facilities.