CONTROVERSIAL plans to build homes on countryside behind Belper's Whitemoor Medical Centre were this week conditionally approved, despite nearby residents branding the development 'ridiculous and dangerous'.
They turned out in force to fight proposals by Westleigh Developments to build 31 affordable homes which are set to have access from the doctor's surgery on Whitemoor Lane.
Residents voiced concerns, including the effect of extra traffic, the dang
er to residents and people using the medical centre from more cars, and the proposed use of a nearby footpath as access to the site.
But Amber Valley borough councillors approved the development subject to a suitable change to the access.
Whitemoor Hall resident Alan Cooper said: "This is a dangerous situation. It's just common sense. It won't make a blind bit of difference where they move the access."
Neighbour Margaret Litchfield said: "I think it's wrong. Whitemoor Lane is like the A38 already."
Several councillors on the planning board expressed major concerns over access to the site, which will comprise houses and flats, but they were swayed into accepting the application because of a desperate need for affordable housing in the area.
Cllr Jim Anderson said: "I am greatly concerned about the access and egress to this site. A lot of people have a lot of work to do, but it will give some people in Belper somewhere to live."
Alternative access to the site will now be sought in discussion with the council.
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