Ivy farm housing development plans to be submitted before the end of the year

PLANS for a development of nearly 200 homes in Royston look set to be submitted before the end of the year. As revealed exclusively in The Crow in September, property consultants Bidwells are working on a scheme which would see 180 - 190 houses built on l

PLANS for a development of nearly 200 homes in Royston look set to be submitted before the end of the year.

As revealed exclusively in The Crow in September, property consultants Bidwells are working on a scheme which would see 180 - 190 houses built on land at Ivy Farm, Royston.

A public exhibition detailing the plans was held earlier this month, and Richard Oakley, from Bidwells, said it is now working with North Herts District Council and hopes to make an application by the end of 2009.

Mr Oakley said: "We had about 170 people attending the exhibitions - mostly local residents but also a selection of councillors.

"It was quite a positive exercise, and we're in consultation with the district council to come up with an application which is acceptable, taking into account the views of local people and the technical planning requirements."

Bidwells are working on behalf of landowners EW Pepper, and Mr Oakley said there had been a number of objections raised by residents, particularly from those living in nearby Heathfields.

He said: "We had quite a few general complaints about the extra pressure which would be put on schools and roads, and also from home owners in Heathfields who were concerned about the impact on their houses.

"But we're working with the district council and will address all these issues in the final application.