MP renews criticism of flood plain homes

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 23rd May 2007

Planned housing site off Cowdray Avenue

Colchester MP Bob Russell has renewed his criticism of the Government for approving plans to build 120 houses on a natural flood plain between Cowdray Avenue and the River Colne.

Speaking in the House of Commons, the town's Liberal Democrat MP challenged the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, the Rt Hon Ruth Kelly MP, over a decision by one of her Ministerial colleagues to over-turn the decision of Colchester Borough Council which had unanimously rejected the application made by Persimmon Homes to build on a field which was previously part of By-Pass Nurseries.

Mr Russell made his comments following a statement by Mrs Kelly on the Government's Planning White Paper which critics feel will give even more power to developers and weaken even more the views of local residents and councils in resisting what they consider are inappropriate planning proposals.

He said that the Secretary of State had made references to "local people having their say but she has been somewhat silent on local decision making."

Mr Russell then referred specifically to the Cowdray Avenue planning appeal where the "unanimous decision reached democratically in accordance with the Borough Plan" had been over-turned by a Minister. "Where is the local accountability there?"

Responding, Mrs Kelly said that she could not comment on a specific planning application.

Afterwards Mr Russell said he would continue to highlight the controversial planning decision. "Colchester Council refused this application because it was in breach of the Borough Plan and will result in 120 houses being built on a natural floodplain, bad enough at any time but even worse in light of climate change and higher water levels.

"It is a nice location, but I consider it important that people thinking of buying or renting a home here should be made aware of the possible risk of flooding. It is only right that they know the situation. I also feel that building societies and solicitors should also be alert to the concerns which I and others are raising."