'Final phase' of Racecourse development gets go-ahead

But 'affordable homes' will be facing only each other

PLANNING chiefs have approved a controversial proposal for 708 new homes with associated access, car parking and infrastructure at Newbury Racecourse.

The decision flew in the face of some local opposition and residents put their case before last night’s (Wednesday) meeting of West Berkshire Council’s western area planning committee.

The plans also include retail and community facilities and a coach park.

The company already had planning permission to build 1,500 homes at the racecourse and many of the homes in the western area are now occupied.

The application, by David Wilson Homes South Limited, was described by developers as “the final phase in the master plan” for the area.

In their pitch to the meeting, they described the project as a bid to “puncture the urban form” by creating a “unique living experience”.

This was challenged by Anthony Stansfeld (Con, Kintbury), who claimed that only one third of the homes would have a racecourse view, while others - including “affordable homes” - would be facing at each other.

The council’s planning officers conceded that the development will have a relatively dramatic impact on the skyline and town highway network.

But in the end, the application was approved by five votes to two.

Newburytoday.co.uk was at the meeting.

Pick up a copy of next week’s Newbury Weekly News for a full report.