Developers returns with revised Oakenholt affordable homes scheme
A revised planning application has been submitted for 117 affordable homes on land at Quarry Farm and near Leadbrook Drive in Oakenholt, Flint.
The proposal follows Flintshire councillors’ decision in June to refuse an earlier scheme for 121 affordable homes on the same site.
The new application seeks permission for the construction of 117 affordable homes, alongside new vehicular and pedestrian access off Ffordd Pedrog, public open space, landscaping, highways works, drainage infrastructure and associated works.
The Quarry Farm site lies outside Flint’s settlement boundary but adjoins the town and has been brought forward under affordable housing exception policies in the county’s Local Development Plan.
The previous application, submitted by Castle Green Homes, was refused by councillors despite being recommended for approval by planning officers.
During the June committee meeting, Flintshire planning officer Karl Spilsbury told councillors the 121-home scheme was acceptable in principle and met policy requirements for affordable housing. Amendments had been made to improve layout, play provision and highway safety.
However, councillors voted nine to two to refuse permission, citing overdevelopment and the impact on living conditions for future residents.
Objectors raised concerns that approving development on land not allocated for housing in the Local Development Plan could undermine confidence in the plan and encourage similar applications.
A statement from the Leadbrook Drive Residents Association said: “The site is not included in the LDP for any development. Granting permission would certainly set the precedent for undermining confidence in the LDP and any future consultation processes.”
The association also raised concerns about flooding, local drainage, historic mine workings and pressure on public services.
Flint Town Council formally objected to the earlier scheme, arguing it failed to adequately meet local needs. A statement read to the committee said: “The proposed development is dense at over 43 dwellings per hectare, and the accessibility of key amenities, including shops and healthcare, raises concerns.”
Local councillor Mel Buckley also objected, saying: “We do need more homes, particularly affordable homes, but not at the expense of proper planning.”
During the debate, councillors also questioned highway access, emergency access and the potential impact on the nearby Croes Atti Roman Site, a scheduled ancient monument. Planning officers confirmed a buffer would be maintained around the site and archaeological monitoring required during construction.
Details of how the revised 117-home scheme differs from the refused application will be assessed by planning officers as part of the new determination process.
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