ALMOST 200 new homes could be built on a site in Royston. A planning application is currently being prepared for a development at Ivy Farm, off Baldock Road, Royston. Developers hope to build 180 -190 houses on the land, which stretches between Baldock Ro

ALMOST 200 new homes could be built on a site in Royston.

A planning application is currently being prepared for a development at Ivy Farm, off Baldock Road, Royston. Developers hope to build 180 -190 houses on the land, which stretches between Baldock Road and the railway line and incorporates green belt land, as well as existing buildings.

A public consultation is to take place next week, and formal plans could be submitted before the end of the year.

Richard Oakley is from property consultants Bidwells, who are working on behalf of the land owners EW Pepper.

He said: "At the moment the plan is to build between 180 -190 houses of various sizes, possibly together with some flats which meet affordable housing criteria.

"We've been working with local authorities on making sure that, when we do submit a application, it will be suitable for the area. Now we want to consult with local residents to make them aware of the initial concepts being discussed."

Mr Oakley added that there are "no plans" to include any commercial premises in the development, and said that residents currently living on the site would be re-housed if the scheme goes ahead.

He said: "Several of the buildings at Ivy Farm are empty or derelict anyway. If we do go ahead, the planning process is likely to take a couple of years, so there is plenty of time to make provisions for residents and businesses currently on the site."

The possibility of housing being built on Ivy Farm was raised in July, when the land was identified by North Herts District Council as a possible site for development.

Cllr Fiona Hill, chairman of North Herts District Council's Royston area committee, and Royston's county councillor, said: "Any housing developments must be accompanied by the appropriate infrastructure. We don't want Royston to turn into a concrete jungle."

District councillor Tony Hunter backed calls for improved facilities to accompany any new development.

He said: "We need industrial and commercial units, as well as houses, so that the town can grow."

Public consultation is being held at the Heath Sports Centre on Thursday 1 (noon - 8pm) and Friday 2 October (10am - 6pm). Representatives of the developers will be on hand to answer questions. Affected residents who are unable to attend can email their views to ivyfarm@bidwells.co.uk.