Homes appeal again

An appeal hearing began on Wednesday to look into plans for 69 homes in a field off Millgate, Newark.

Earlier this year, the High Court of Justice ordered the Planning Inspectorate to hear the appeal again.

It is being held at Kelham Hall and a decision is expected at the end of June.

The application, by Redrow Homes (East Midlands) Ltd, was turned down in June 2006 by Newark and Sherwood District Council’s planning committee. Concerns included the adverse impact on Millgate Conservation Area.

This decision was later overturned by a planning inspector after an appeal by the developers.

This was challenged by Millgate Conservation Society, which sought the help of specialist solicitors because members said an environmental impact assessment was not carried out.

In May last year the High Court of Justice ruled that the society’s challenge should be allowed, quashing the planning inspector’s decision and it was returned to him to reconsider.

Several members of the conservation society were present on Wednesday, the first day of the new hearing.

Redrow Homes (East Midlands) Ltd are no longer involved in the application, now being pursued by British Waterways.