PLANS to demolish a home and build up to three houses in a village near Hereford have been given the go-ahead.

Joe Lively submitted plans to develop land at Hill View in Dinedor.

His proposals were met with opposition from the parish council and local residents who were concerned that the plans could lead to 14 new homes being built in a short distance.

They also raised concerns over the lack of services in the village and the impact it would have on the nearby roads.

But council officers said the scheme’s benefits outweighed the concerns and should be approved with conditions.

Speaking at the online meeting, Mr Lively said the examiner felt the local neighbourhood development plan was drawn too tight.

“It should be extended to include new developments. Including mine," he said.

“The council raised highways and flooding issues along the road, however drainage and management of the road is a county council matter not one related to this development.”

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Ward councillor David Summers said he was concerned with the plans which are on a narrow strip of road which is not fit for purpose.

He said Dinedor Hill is an old Roman encampment, serviced by an old Roman Road which was built for marching soldiers not scores of motorised vehicles.

“The proposed development will increase traffic along the very narrow, single track road with blind access onto the B4399.

“The road provides the main access into and out of the village and concerns have been mentioned by the parish council and residents on many occasions about the constant flooding and the overall state of the road.

“In my opinion this is no about meeting housing targets, it’s about public safety on a single-track road with very few passing points.”

Councillor Sebastian Bowen said he had some sympathy with councillor Summers’ concerns but proposed approving the scheme and this was seconded by councillor Polly Andrews.

“As far as the road goes, that is a major problem and perhaps something for the highways people to look at," coun Bowen said.

“As far as the neighbourhood plan goes, it seems to be very clear it will be part of the plan and it will be very difficult to refuse it.”

The committee approved the plans by eight votes to three with one abstention.