A DEVELOPER has reduced the number of homes on a proposed Appleton Thorn development to allow for extra green space on the site.

A decision on Bloor Homes’ plans for 74 homes, on Stretton Road, was deferred by the development management committee last month.

It came almost 11 months after the firm’s bid to build 78 homes on the land was refused.

And the scheme has been reduced once again following pressure from campaigners.

A revised proposal for 71 properties to make way for more green space will come before planning chiefs next Wednesday.

The application is recommended for approval, subject to a section 106 agreement, including contributions of £273,658 towards primary school provision, £210,223 towards secondary school provision and £57,054 for health facilities.

Campaign Against Ruining our Environment (CARE) is holding a drop-in event from 4pm to 6pm at St Cross Church, on Stretton Road, on Saturday to give residents the chance to discuss the new proposal

Group chairman Alan Murray said: “Four years ago Bloor Homes unveiled their draft plan for the development of the village field.

“Most villagers were adamant that they did not want the development.

“CARE has supported those villagers by organising opposition to Bloor Homes’ plan as it has evolved.

“Bloor produced a revised plan, which we felt was an improvement, but we felt the village deserved more.

“Bloor have now provided this plan in which they have conceded more recreational space.

“Although we would still rather there were no development at all, we have to recommend that we accept that this is the most generous plan, in terms of green space provision, that the village is going to be offered.

“It is of course up to individual villagers to decide if they wish to object.”

Bloor said it has engaged with residents and stakeholders while preparing its plans for the village.

A spokesman added: “We have met with the local ward members and the neighbourhood plan group since the May planning committee.

“We are thankful that the CARE group has recognised this engagement and the changes we have made to our proposals, including a significant increase in the public open space, the provision of bungalows and a reduced number of homes.

“We have over 40 letters in support of the application and we are confident that our plans will deliver much-needed new homes in Appleton Thorn, including a provision of affordable homes, suitable for first-time buyers.”