A planning application for 72 new homes on vacant land in Oakham have been refused after nearly 300 objections were received from local residents.

The homes were proposed on land to the rear of Hilltop Drive and Redland Road, Oakham, Rutland.

The proposal detailed the erection of 72 dwellings with associated vehicular access, parking, landscaping, surface water balancing and public open space.

The application stated that the homes will be "social, affordable or intermediate rent" and "affordable home ownership". 

While many local residents commented that more affordable homes need to be built in the area, a total of 291 representations objecting to the build were submitted.

One representation claims: "These add ons to our small towns and villages cannot be allowed to keep being permitted. The local area is already struggling to cope. Excess water and flooding have already impacted schools and homes following the addition of more new homes in the area. 

"No facility is being made for better drainage, more amenities or infrastructure. All the local schools and doctors are already at capacity and unable to cope with the demand being placed on them. Why don't developers and the government consider standing up further new towns that can be built to cater for the needs of the population and reduce the impact that these continual 'small' developers have on local towns and villages."

An Officer's Report published by Rutland County Council says: "Overall, the main concern is the impact of the scale of development on a greenfield site at the top of a hill on the edge of Oakham.

"Despite this proposal being 100% affordable housing, the dwellings are not needed to meet overall housing supply as the Council can demonstrate a 5-year supply of housing."

View the full planning application here.