QUESTIONS have been raised over the number of affordable homes in plans to build nearly 300 new houses in Ulverston.

Plans were first proposed to build 330 new properties at Nook Farm more than five years ago and were granted the green light by planning bosses in 2017.

But developers Quince Homes lowered the number of proposed houses to 266 to cater for potential flood risk events.

In their latest application, the Wigan-based company have revealed an in-depth plan addressing the layout, landscape, transport and biodiversity of the major construction.

Mayor Cllr Shirley-Anne Wilson raised her concerns about the lack of low cost housing at the monthly meeting of Ulverston Town Council, which was held online.

She said: “I am concerned the developer could not be more specific on low cost housing as I believe this is very important in Ulverston.”

This was backed by other council members, who also questioned the environmental impact.

Cllr Colin Pickthall said: “I am very unhappy about the environmental impact of possibility 1,000 more cars in the area.”

A proposal was put forward to recommend approving the plans but with concerns in regard to low cost housing and questions over drainage, as well as the environmental impact of such a large scale project. This proposal was seconded and was passed by one vote.

The application for the site said the development would be ‘interspersed with large open green areas which, together with materials and boundary treatments, create distinctive character areas.’

Once completed, the 15-hectare housing estate, off Colt House Lane, will provide a range of open market and affordable properties for Ulverston, as well as open space and a playground. The development, which will border Croftlands housing estate between Mountbarrow Road and Urswick Road, is said to include 112 affordable homes.

South Lakeland District Council's planning committee will have the final say in the coming months.