Villagers object to plans for homes in Green Lane, Bovingdon

A full application has been submitted for 57 dwellings at the Grange Farm in Green Lane, Bovingdon.

If approved, the retirement development would provide 59 units comprising of 35 one-bedroom units and 24- two-bedroom units.

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In addition, the developer has also submitted an outline planning application for up to 129 dwellings, a Scout’s hut, community orchard, gardens and green space.

Current illustrative view of Central Green (Image: Mark Reeves Architects)However, the application has received 30 objections, two offers of support and four neutral stances since it was submitted on September 13.

Objections include concerns over increased traffic in the area and a belief that there is a lack of parking under the proposals.

One person described the potential development as “urban sprawl” and said “the village cannot and should not be expected to absorb an enlargement in its population”.

Illustrative view of inner streets (Image: Mark Reeves Architects)Others claimed that the village’s shops, doctors, and schools would not be able to manage an increased number of people.

Several were strongly against the plans because they wanted the green belt preserved.

However, the plan did receive support from two separate parties.

The Memorial Hall in the high street said the committee supports the application in “principle” on the basis that community benefits are included.

It added: “Support is also on the understanding that the extra care housing will provide a residential care home facility.”

Current illustrative view of Linear Green (Image: Mark Reeves Architects)A spokesperson for Taylor Wimpey, which wants to develop the site, said it had engaged with the local community for several years regarding the application and is confident that the proposals address the concerns that have been raised.

They added: “The site was subject to significant public consultation during the Bovingdon Neighbourhood Plan process in 2019 and has a draft allocation for new residential development.

“Dacorum Borough Council has retained support for the draft allocation in its Revised Strategy for Growth (2024-2040).

“We have carried out further consultation with residents and stakeholders which resulted in the refinement of the planning application which has now been submitted.

“We are confident that our proposals will deliver a range of benefits for the local community and look forward to presenting them to councillors.”