DESPITE vigorous objection from the local community, plans to build 10 luxury homes in Great Whittington have been approved.

On Tuesday the Northumberland County Council strategic planning committee voted in favour of the development.

The planning application was submitted by Whittonstall developer Anvil Homes and seeks to build 10 detached homes in the village.

The four-bedroom homes will be built from sandstone and slate and, alongside seven garages, are to be built on land close to Hill House Close. A private road, leading onto the main carriageway through the village will provide access to the new homes.

Since its submission to the planning department, the application has attracted criticism from the local community.

Dozens of objections were submitted, including one from the parish council which states the development would increase the size of the village by more than 20 per cent.

Speaking on behalf of local residents at Tuesday’s meeting, chartered town planner Nicola Allan said the development was an inappropriate size for the village.

She said: “These are very large four bedroomed houses, 8.25 metres high, built on an exposed site on a ridge on the edge of a village overlooking open countryside.

“Will it support the vibrant community of Great Whittington, will it meet the needs of those living there?”

Coun. Veronica Jones also represented local residents at the meeting. She said: “Many residents are concerned this would increase the size of the village making this application an inappropriate development. The nearest shop is miles away in Matfen, there’s a limited bus service, there’s one Chinese restaurant and a village hall.

“Roads around the area are already under pressure.

“I respectfully ask you do not support this application in this rural settlement.”

Agent Robin Wood spoke on behalf of Anvil Homes. He said: “All statutory consultees are happy with the proposal and raised no objections. In the absence of any evidence to the contrary there’s simply no grounds to refuse permission.”

The committee voted unanimously to approve the planning application.