Update on homes plan for Tesco petrol station site in Tetbury

Councillors want Newland Homes Limited to tweak their plans to redevelop the land at London Road in Tetbury to include more open space.

The scheme, which was considered by Cotswold District Council on November 9, includes demolishing the former Tesco petrol filling station and other existing buildings at Northfield Garage and building a new estate on the site.

But more than 30 people had objected to the proposals along with Tetbury Town Council over concerns the site is too small for the number of homes.

Judith Taylor from Tetbury Town Council told the planning and licensing committee meeting the current site is an eyesore and has been poised for development for years.

She said they welcome development of the site but do not feel their concerns have been addressed over highways and traffic management along with the density of the site.

“We are pleased there is some attempt on affordable housing and some of the efforts to support biodiversity and wildlife.

“There is very little green space and no play area for children.

"The houses are cramped and have very minimal garden space.”

London Road in Tetbury (Image: Google)

Tom Sheppard, Newland Homes Planning director, spoke in support of the scheme. He said they have been working to refine the scheme.

He said it was the only brownfield site in Tetbury and has an overall capacity of 50 homes.

“The majority of the site is an existing housing commitment and allocation in the local plan.

“Newland Homes are committed to building all new developments as zero carbon in operation and this is achieved through the provision of air source heat pumps and solar on the roofs.

“Our proposals include one, two, three and four bedroom homes all of which have been to national space standards.

“We are pleased also to include eight affordable homes within the scheme.”

Ward councillor Nikki Ind (I, Tetbury) said the site was limited and she was concerned about parking at the development.

She said she was pleased with the changes to the plans which now include affordable housing.

Cllr Sue Jepson (C, Blockley) proposed deferring the plans to include some green space within the development.

This was seconded by Cllr Julia Judd (C, Emin).

Cllr Judd said: “We are not trying to make life difficult for the developer. 

“What we are trying to do is the best for Tetbury and achieve good design and deliver something we want, works and Tetbury wants.”

Councillors voted unanimously in favour of deferral.