An application has been made for 14 houses on land at Castle End, Lea, near Ross-on-Wye. Outline permission is being sought for 14 new residential properties, vehicle turning, manoeuvring and landscaping.

A previous application for the site was refused on appeal, but this was for a larger residential development and, despite the refusal, the Appeal Inspector did find in favour of the applicant on highways grounds. Highways officers of Herefordshire County Council had also supported the previous, larger application.

The applicants have commissioned a transport planning company to advise on operational traffic matters in association with the proposals.

The company says that the development is sustainable as many amenities are within walking distance and footways are provided. The nearby town of Ross-on-Wye offers significant services and facilities, including secondary education which is readily accessible by bus from Lea. Bus services are also available at appropriate times to permit convenient travel to work without reliance on the private car.

The site is currently agricultural land and fronts the A40, which is subject to a 30mph speed limit in this area. The developers have agreed to make improvements to the access and, given the small scale of the development, believe no traffic impact is anticipated.

The consultation period started on Tuesday, August 9th and will end on Thursday, September 8th.

Visit the Herefordshire Council website to comment on this application which is P162383/O at www.herefordshire.gov.uk