Bradford Rural Estates has applied for outline planning permission to build 38 homes on agricultural land west of Malthouse Lane in Church Eaton. The 4.8-hectare site would be accessed from Malthouse Lane, and 15 of the properties would be classed as affordable housing.
What the developer says
The applicant says the scheme would benefit the wider community, pointing to plans for over 1,000 square metres of allotment gardens, a recreation ground six times larger than the current one, and new walking routes and green spaces. The developer also argues that more residents could help sustain local services such as the pub and primary school.
What residents say
Local objections have been submitted to Stafford Borough Council. Concerns centre on several issues:
- Scale: Church Eaton currently has around 136 homes, so 38 new properties would represent a near-30% increase in housing stock, which many residents feel is disproportionate.
- Flooding: The village and its surrounding roads already flood regularly, sometimes cutting residents off entirely. Objectors say there is no clear evidence the development would not make surface water runoff worse.
- Roads: The five roads serving the village are narrow, lack pavements or usable verges, and already suffer from congestion. Residents warn that a significant rise in vehicle numbers would worsen problems, particularly during the school run and rush hour.
Stafford Borough Council is yet to make a decision on the application.
Source: stokesentinel.co.uk
