A TOWN is poised for yet another building boom as plans have been approved for more than seventy new homes.

Proposals were tabled for the development of 77 homes on the outskirts of Wigton last year.

Stoneswood Developments Limited earmarked land off Syke Road - Fearon’s former market garden site - for the new development.

An outline of the plan was first approved more than five years ago.

However, when plans were submitted to Allerdale last year concerns and objects were raised from a number of residents in the town.

One letter was sent to Allerdale Council objecting to the proposal with the matter referred to Wigton town council for further comments.

Steven Coates, a resident in the town strongly objected to the new plan. In a letter to Allerdale planners he said: “The infrastructure of Wigton does not support the current population (infants, junior, secondary schools, dentist, doctors surgery) and three developments are underway, how can you possibly consider another 77 houses?”

Councillor Mike Armstrong was strongly opposed to the plans.

During the planning process he questioned the type of building and the impact it would have on the surrounding businesses.

Taking the time to speak to the businesses - who were part of the consultation - to see specifically how they would be affected.

Mr Armstrong explained: “My own personal concerns are with the increase from 50 to 77 homes and the impact that would have on the already established industrial estate. The original development gave airspace between both areas but that has now gone.”

Richard Todd, a resident in the town raised concerns regarding the surface water drainage plan.

He said: “An increase in overall water flow down this route which is inevitable if the green fields are replaced by a housing

development will only accentuate the flooding which occurs.”