Red-faced residents are fuming over plans to erect a new housing estate (Image: AktinsRealis / SWNS)
Residents in Telford, Shropshire, are seeing red over a proposed housing estate that bears an uncanny resemblance to a male organ. The controversial design for the 250-home site, set to be built on the historic Lawley West coal mine, has sparked outrage among locals.
Last summer, when Telford & Wrekin Council and Homes England consulted the community, a staggering 85 per cent of the 286 respondents voiced their opposition. One resident said: “I can’t believe somebody didn’t look at that [design] and snigger, because we’ve all cottoned on.”
Antony Iles, another resident, lambasted the shape was “as absurd as the plans themselves.”
Many fear the rude-shaped development will overwhelm the existing infrastructure and wipe out cherished green spaces currently enjoyed by dog walkers and families. Resident Jane Wheeler, 45, expressed her dismay, saying: “Aside from the ridiculous shape of the estate, it’s yet another area of green being bulldozed for houses.”
She also highlighted the potential impact on residents and wildlife, noting that people would have to travel further to find open spaces for recreation.
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Despite the uproar, councillors are set to review the outline planning permission for the mix of two, three, and four-bedroom homes. If approved, the estate promises 635 private and 97 on-street parking spots, with additional parking near a junction, and will feature a cycle and pedestrian pathway.
The planning documents reveal residents’ fears, stating: “Many respondents were concerned that the proposed development would result in [the loss of] one of the last remaining green spaces in Lawley and is used by children, dog walkers, and local wildlife.
“While the final layout of the development would be determined at the reserved matters stage, the site’s topography lends itself to providing new dwellings with attractive vistas across the Wrekin.
“The site’s boundaries also benefit from natural buffers from existing trees and hedgerows, which would provide a level of screening.”
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The area, known as Lawley West, has been designated for residential development under the Telford and Wrekin Local Plan (2018). The site, described as “characterised by green fields predominantly used for grazing,” is considered part of the built-up area of Telford in planning terms.
It features areas of trees and vegetation, public rights of way, Ketley Brook running through it, and a caravan park. The council aims to provide affordable housing for those most in need, according to the planning documents.
At this stage, the planning application seeks outline permission, with full details to be submitted if approved.