Richborough gets go-ahead for Southwell scheme
Outline planning permission for a ‘sensitive’ 70-home scheme near the Nottinghamshire town of Southwell has been formally granted, after promoter Richborough submitted its vision for the site in November.
Councillors on Newark and Sherwood District Council’s planning committee gave the green light to the development this month, which is set to include 30% affordable housing, along with parking, infrastructure, public open space and children’s play areas.
The application was deferred at the council’s February meetings, after members requested a report on the landscape impact of the proposal, which sits outside the development boundary of Southwell.
“Due to the close physical relationship to Southwell and its urban boundary and the lack of a sufficient housing supply, it is considered that the principle of development on the site is acceptable,” wrote the council’s planning officer in a report to the committee.
“Members have previously raised the prematurity of this site coming forward when the other allocated sites have not yet been delivered, and that they should have preference before seeking further development outside of the defined built-up area.
“Officer advice remains that we have a shortfall in housing land supply. Furthermore, the council is not able to control where development comes forward and in what order.”
Richborough’s in-house design team led the architectural direction, ensuring the extension responds to Southwell’s historic character and material palette, according to the developer.
Anabel Christmas, senior regional director at Richborough said: “Our design-led approach demonstrated how the scheme will feel inherently connected to its setting, delivering new homes that enhance the town while providing much-needed housing.
“It’s indicative of our approach to unlock land and reflects our commitment to thoughtful, context-driven residential development.”
Plans and documents relating to the application can be found on Newark and Sherwood District Council’s planning portal using reference: 25/01879/OUTM
