Planners reject latest bid for homes on site of derelict buildings in Station Road, Manea

48 Station Road, Manea. Picture: Steve Williams. (Image: Archant)

Mr Sears had hoped originally to build four homes there but later reduced his application to three.

But now that application has been refused by the planning committee of Fenland Council who felt it would harm the character of the area.

The site at 48 Station Road – containing some derelict buildings- would have been cleared and three chalet style homes put up.

But councillors agreed with an assessment by their planning officers that the restricted width of the site compared to its ample depth would likely result in a “tandem form of development unrelated to the road frontage”.

48 Station Road, Manea. Picture: Steve Williams. (Image: Archant)

It would appear incongruous argued officials and as such would be harmful to the character and appearance of the area.

Mr Sears was reminded that council policies insist that any new housing will only be allowed if it makes a positive contribution “to the local distinctiveness and character of the area”.

They also said it must respond to and improve the character of the built environment and was in a location that is in keeping with the core shape and form of the settlement.

At one stage Mr Sears had submitted a 20 page report on the possibility of bats on the site but this was not referred to in the decision notice.

Mr Sears had hoped for approval following a fresh round of public consultation, allaying fears over impact on neighbours by better design, and insisting all of the homes will be within Flood Zone 1 and therefore safe to occupy.

His agents also countered original objections about scale and layout by claiming “we do not consider that the proposals would be harmful to the character and appearance of the area”.

Manea Parish Council, who supported the original application, has also supported the revised bid.