Homebuilding continues at old college site after tree delay - The Rugby Observer

Homebuilding continues at old college site after tree delay

Rugby Editorial 11th Sep, 2015 Updated: 27th Oct, 2016   0

WORK has resumed on 131 new homes in Rugby after developers were told to stop when they breached planning conditions.

Bellway Homes was told in June by Rugby Borough Council to stop work on its Academy development at the old Rugby College site in Lower Hillmorton Road after trees were pollarded (excessively trimmed) without permission.

Two weeks previously, councillors and residents of Lower Hillmorton Road had raised concerns about trees after several were cut down during the early stages of the development – but Rugby Borough Council said there had been no breaches of planning permission, adding there would be a net gain of 50 trees after the development was finished.

Having since halted the development, the authority has now agreed that work can continue in line with the original plans.




Councillor Jerry Roodhouse, who initially raised concerns with the work on site, said: “As long as they meet the planning conditions, it should be no problem for them to continue.

“We will keep a close eye to make sure it is running smoothly and making sure everything is running accordingly.”


Sales Director Ben Smith said: “We are pleased to be back on site at The Academy. We are focused on delivering the homes the community needs to help meet local authority targets for new homes.

“Of course, delays are always frustrating but the planning team has a job to do. They are satisfied that we are operating within our planning consent and work will continue in line with this.”

The former college site had been vacant since 2012. A portion of adjoining land has been set aside for an extra care facility for people who may need day-to-day assistance but want to retain their independence.

Bellway will build two, three and four-bedroom homes at The Academy as well contributing funds towards education in the area, indoor sport facilities, and improving and maintaining Whitehall Recreation Ground on Hillmorton Road.

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