A housing developer's plan to build on privately-owned land in Minet Drive in Hayes will now provide low density housing and upgrade the borough's Grassy Meadows cricket and football pitches, as a result of conditions imposed by Hillingdon Council's Planning Committee.

The original application, by Inland Homes, was for 100 houses. The council refused planning permission for this application because it was concerned that too many homes would be squeezed onto the site. The developer appealed against the council's decision, asking the independent Planning Inspector to decide whether the application should get the go-ahead and this appeal was discussed.


The developers have since re-submitted their application, reducing their plans to 65 homes, 13 warden-assisted homes, parking and a children's play area. Since their last application planning policy has changed, so the developer has to contribute towards the improvement of sports facilities elsewhere as compensation. In this case the improvements will be for existing cricket and football pitches at Grassy Meadows in Grange Road, Hayes.

As a result of the changes, the council's Central and South Planning Committee gave the application permission to go ahead.

Cllr John Hensley, Chair of the Central and South Planning Committee, said: "Although there is great demand for housing in the borough, we will not sacrifice our residents' quality of life by allowing developments where the intensity of housing is too high. We're pleased to have secured improved sports facilities for Grassy Meadows, as well as warden-supported homes providing accommodation for our residents who need some extra help."

(CD)