New Plans Unveiled for 43 Affordable Homes in Warboys

Fresh plans have been submitted to construct 43 affordable homes in the village of Warboys, located in Huntingdonshire, England. The developer, Amplius, has presented these proposals to the Huntingdonshire District Council for a site adjacent to Station Road. This 5.8-acre parcel of land, previously used as farmland, is now empty and lies within 1 kilometer of the village center.

The proposed development will consist of entirely affordable housing, a significant move to address local housing needs. The site is situated north of a sewage pumping station and borders a residential area to the southwest. The plans include a mix of two-storey homes and two accessible bungalows, totaling 84 parking spaces and a playground for families. The application highlights that the location is within acceptable walking and cycling distances from various amenities, including Warboys High Street.

According to local housing policy, developments of 11 homes or more should include at least 40 percent affordable housing. The current application not only meets this requirement but also significantly exceeds it. It states, “The scheme not only meets but significantly exceeds the policy requirement, making a valuable contribution to local housing needs.”

Previous Applications and Community Concerns

This is not the first attempt by Amplius, formerly known as Longhurst Group, to develop the site. In May 2022, the company submitted plans for 48 homes, which were later revised to 47 before being withdrawn in May 2023. The earlier proposals faced considerable backlash from residents, particularly concerning the existing traffic congestion on Station Road. One local resident described the road as “currently at or beyond breaking point.”

Concerns about local services also surfaced, with some letters highlighting pressure on facilities, including Warboys Primary Academy and Moat House Surgery. Critics of the development argue that it does not adequately address the needs of the community, with one letter stating it is “yet another development that offers no support to our over-stretched village.”

Many objections noted that the proposals fall below the threshold that would require developers to contribute financially to local infrastructure improvements.

Next Steps and Developer Commitment

The Huntingdonshire District Council has set an internal target date of October 30, 2023, to make a decision on the current application. A consultation period for local residents to voice their support or objections will remain open until August 27, 2023.

Marcus Keys, Chief Development and Commercial Officer at Amplius, expressed optimism about the project. He stated, “We’ve worked closely with colleagues at Huntingdonshire District Council to make these plans suitable for the surroundings. If we’re given the go-ahead for this development, I’ll be looking forward to seeing building work progress and eventually welcoming new customers to their homes.”

The proposed development aims to provide affordable housing in a community struggling with demand, while also addressing the concerns raised by residents. As the council evaluates the plans, the outcome will be pivotal for both the developer and the Warboys community.