Council appeals after Pickles backs 800-home scheme near Hathaway's cottage
Stratford-on-Avon District Council is to launch an appeal against a decision by the Communities Secretary to grant planning permission for the building of 800 homes at land near Anne Hathaway’s cottage.
The local authority’s regulatory committee last week unanimously backed a recommendation that the monitoring officer instigate proceedings over the decision.
Eric Pickles approved an appeal by JS Bloor Homes on 25 October. The developer intends to build a new primary school, a health centre and local shops as well as houses on the site, which is in Shottery.
Cllr Chris Williams, chairman of the committee, said: “The committee was unanimous in its decision, showing full support for the course of action."
Stratford-on-Avon said its plan to contest the Communities Secretary’s decision was based on legal advice.
Cllr Chris Saint, Leader of Stratford-on-Avon, said: “I attended the committee and watched proceedings and was pleased that a unanimous decision was made that reflected the many representations I have received."
Anne Hathaway's cottage is a house where the wife of William Shakespeare lived as a child. It is owned by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.