Approval granted for new South Elmsall homes despite ‘unsafe traffic’ claims
Plans for up to 29 homes on land in South Elmsall have been approved despite a wave of objections from residents raising concerns over traffic, safety, flooding and wildlife loss.
The plans are for land off Honeysuckle Walk and would include vehicle and pedestrian access, a mix of housing including two, three and four bed homes and two bungalows.
The outline scheme, which includes demolition of existing structures, has attracted 24 objections.
A design and access statement provided on behalf of the applicant said: “The site functions as a single planning unit currently used for gazing horses and contains stables and a drainage pond.
"It is also in proximity of residential development. The site is in a sustainable with easy access to services, facilities, employment opportunities and public transport links.”
However, residents raised objections during the consultation.
One objector said: “The roads and estate on The Meadows was not built to be a thorough fair for traffic for an additional estate. During peek school times this is made worse.”
Another said: “Children play on the street and building extra houses would mean more traffic up and down the street due to through roads making it unsafe for children during and after the buildings.”
Concerns were also raised about environmental impact, with one submission stating: “The development would result in the loss of green space and wildlife habitat, contributing to environmental degradation and reducing the area's biodiversity.”
Another said: “This area is a quiet, residential neighbourhood where families and children enjoy a peaceful environment, with outdoor play and community interaction being part of daily life.
"The proposed development would bring a marked increase in activity, noise, traffic movements, and general disturbance, fundamentally altering the area's tranquil character and directly impacting residents' enjoyment of their homes and gardens.”
Others warned that a proposed link to Frickley Country Park could increase antisocial behaviour and reduce security for nearby homes.
Several residents also questioned the effect on infrastructure, with one objector saying: “The local schools are already operating at or near full capacity. This development would increase the number of families in the area, putting further strain on school places.”