Last updated at 19:56, Thursday, 21 June 2012

A £20 million 221-home estate in Cockermouth can be built, the Government has ruled because of the area’s need for new housing.

Lakeland Leisure Limited, owned by Cockermouth businessman Bob Slack, wants to build on land between the A66 and The Fitz, south of Fitz Woods.

The scheme will offer 88 homes under the “affordable” designation, and some will be available for rent.

The plan was originally rejected last year by Allerdale council, and council officers suggested that other sites would be more appropriate.

But Lakeland Leisure lodged an appeal with the Government in February.

Planning inspector Zoe Hill said: “The need for housing, and in particular affordable housing, weighs heavily in favour of the scheme.

“The development could be absorbed without significant harm to the landscape.”

Mr Slack said: “I am delighted the inspector has upheld our appeal.

“Forty per cent of the homes will be affordable housing which is much needed in Cockermouth.

“The whole project will inject more than £40 million into the local economy and will secure 140 local jobs for more than five years.

“I would like to thank all those who have supported the project from the beginning. This has been a long process.”

It is hoped work can start as soon as possible.

First published at 19:21, Thursday, 21 June 2012
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk