Hucknall: Whyburn developers 'understand' concerns but insist project is a 'big opportunity'
The developers behind plans to build 3,000 new homes on Whyburn Farm in Hucknall insist they have listened to residents’ concerns about the project.
Bt representiatives of Bloor Homes and Peverill Homes also say the project is an £80m opportunity for Hucknall and also point to the Labour Government’s plans to build 1.5m new homes in the before the end of their current Parliamentary term in 2029 as reasons for pressing ahead with the plans.
However, green belt campaigners, the town’s MP and local councillors are all fiercely opposed to the plans, saying Hucknall’s already creaking infrastructure cannot take any more development.
When the plans went live on the council’s planning portal, there was an immediate deluge of objections lodged by residents all saying the same thing – hands off Whyburn and the town’s remaining green belt as Hucknall cannot sustain any more development.
Your Dispatch contacted the developers’ representatives for a response to these comments and to ask why, in the face of such sustained local opposition, they were wanting to press ahead with the unpopular proposals?
In a statement, a spokesperson for the developers said: “We understand that proposals for new homes can raise questions for existing residents, and we take those concerns seriously.
"During the consultation stage we listened carefully to the feedback shared, particularly around infrastructure and transport.
"In response, we have published a comprehensive plan setting out how our ‘infrastructure first’ approach will ensure that new schools, healthcare facilities, and transport improvements are delivered in step with the development.
"With more than 4,000 people currently on the council’s housing waiting list, and in support of the Government’s ambition to deliver 1.5m homes by the end of this Parliament, this project represents an opportunity to create a high-quality, sustainable community.
"The development is expected to generate over 10,000 jobs and contribute an estimated £80m to the Hucknall and wider local economy, providing long-term social and economic benefits for residents.”