An application for housing on a paddock off Merrivale Lane in Ross-on-Wye is being reviewed, after the applicants appointed an independent valuer to assess the site.

The Ruth Lilian McQueen Keohane Discretionary Trust wants to develop the site which is currently used for grazing and contains a row of trees and a small stable. But dozens of residents have objected to the plans for the development, and ward councillor Phil Cutter told people who attended the recent Ross Town Meeting that the scheme should be rejected.

He said: “I’ve been consulted by the planning officer who has recommended refusal of the application and I support them.”

However, although many of the objectors commented on road safety and parking issues a Herefordshire Council spokesperson said: “The officer recommendation was to refuse this application based upon housing mix and what was felt to be inefficient use of land. Rather than debate this at appeal, the applicant is paying for the independent District Valuer to review the matter.”

The application is for 10 three to four-bedroom homes, which would each have a garage but according to the Neighbourhood Plan, Herefordshire Council would be looking for between 20 and 25 homes on this size site, and these should include some affordable housing.

Speaking at a town council meeting last year, Danny Haines, of Princess Way, said he found it was like a nightmare coming off Alton Street to go across Merrivale.

“The proposal is looking to bring an access road and T junction onto what is effectively a single track lane. It is very dangerous and needs to be re-engineered.”

Another resident, Mr David Open wrote several letters about the application especially regarding road safety. He said: “parking issues are diabolical and the road is very dangerous.”

He added: “I am sure the roads and highway departments will consider and advise the planning officer of any danger and safety issues, because of the close proximity of these entrances, before he makes a decision regarding the planning application.”

The scheme included the creation of a T-junction onto Merrivale Lane as a means of accessing the site.See this week’s paper for more stories like this, available in shops and as a Digital Edition now.