Developer submits plans for 290 new homes in Wakefield village
The scheme would have a range of house types
A developer has submitted plans to build 290 homes on farmland in a Wakefield village.
The scheme involves building a range of house types across an 11-hectare site on Church Road in Altofts.
The application was submitted a month after the company was given a screening opinion from the local authority.
Planning regulations require applicants to request a screening opinion if the size of urban development projects exceed one hectare.
They indicate to developers how likely an environmental impact assessment (EIA) would be needed before a formal planning application is submitted.
A report, which considered the scale of the project, including the potential increase in traffic, noise, dust emissions and the impact on biodiversity, said an EIA was not required.
Addressing the traffic concerns, the document said: “It is considered that highway impacts for this development would be localised and would not lead to any significant effects on the wider environment within the meaning of the EIA regulations.”
In a briefing document sent to local councillors in April, Vistry said it was “aware of concerns regarding capacity and safety on Church Road” and a local transport assessment was being carried out in consultation with National Highways and the council.
The company also said: “Sustainability is a core part of the Church Road proposals, with energy-efficient homes intended to reduce consumption and running costs.
“Landscape and green infrastructure are integral to the scheme, including public open space, planting and features that support amenity, biodiversity, recreation and drainage management.
“Biodiversity enhancements aim to deliver measurable net gains through habitats, native planting and wildlife – supporting design aligned with planning policy expectations.”
The report said a £750,000 community infrastructure levy (CIL) would also be paid by the developer if the scheme was approved, to support local health and social care projects.
A planning statement submitted this week on behalf of the developer said 29 properties at the site would be “affordable dwellings” and 261 would be sold on the open market.
The scheme also includes 12 bungalows, ten of which would have wheelchair access.
The statement added: “The proposal would make a material and immediate contribution to housing delivery.
“The proposal would also deliver wider social benefits through public open space, play provision, recreational space, green infrastructure and enhanced pedestrian connectivity.
“These benefits support healthy lifestyles, active travel and the creation of a mixed and balanced community.”
Several housing schemes are currently ongoing in the area, with some proving controversial among residents.
Objectors have previously cited road safety concerns due to increased traffic.
Others opposed development over the loss of green space and the lack of local infrastructure, including capacity at schools, doctors and dentists, to accommodate more housing.
A total of 1,774 homes have already been allocated at sites in the Altofts and Normanton area under the council’s Local Plan, which was adopted in 2024 and sets out the blueprint for development across the district.