Several weeks wait for decision on controversial housing development in Sheffield

An inquiry has concluded into Owlthorpe Fields at Moorthorpe Way, Crystal Peaks after nearly two weeks of evidence and cross examination.

Last June, councillors overwhelmingly blocked plans to build 74 new properties but developers Avant Homes appealed.

Although the land was designated for housing in the 1980s, it has flourished into a wildlife haven over the years.

Green councillor Douglas Johnson spoke at the inquiry against the plans. He said afterwards: “Urban sprawl is the big failed planning policy of the 1960s. Time has moved on and we shouldn’t be building on greenfield sites today just because it was the original plan many years ago.

“There’s a climate emergency now. This is a highly valued area for the local community and of ecological importance.”

The number of properties has since been reduced to 72 and Avant Homes said the development would enhance the area and there would be improvements to the local wildlife site. It emphasised that the site was designated for housing.

But Sheffield Council argued it did not meet policy on housing density and affordable homes.

Owlthorpe Action Group is a team of local residents who have been campaigning for 18 months against their development.

The group’s legal advocate Paul Powlesland became ill with Covid-19 the day before the inquiry started and Andrew Wood, of the Campaign to Protect Rural England, stepped in at the last minute.

He said the development would mean losing ecology, hedgerows, open space and potential damage to ancient woodland.

The inspector will make a decision by March 12.