The Planning and Development Control Committee of Leicester City Council met on Wednesday 25 March 2026 to consider two significant planning applications. The committee refused an application for a 72-bedroom care home on land designated as Green Wedge, citing policy conflicts. However, they approved an application for 60 new dwellings on land off Heacham Drive, subject to conditions and a Section 106 agreement.

Stoughton Drive and North of Gartree Road

The committee refused the application for a 72-bedroom care home on land designated as Green Wedge, located on the city's boundary with Oadby and Wigston. The primary reason for refusal was that the proposal did not meet any of the exception criteria outlined in saved policy GE06 of the Leicester Local Plan, nor Core Strategy policy CS13. Furthermore, it was deemed to conflict with emerging Local Plan policy OSSR01. The committee concluded that the proposal was unacceptable in principle and contrary to the Development Plan.

Arguments against the development centred on the site's designation as a Green Wedge, which is intended to prevent the merging of settlements, act as a green lung for the city, and provide a recreational resource. Objectors, including residents and Councillor Alam, highlighted concerns about increased traffic, flood risk, and the loss of open green space. While acknowledging the need for care homes, as supported by letters from Adult Social Care Services and the applicant, Morrison Community Care, the committee ultimately prioritised the Green Wedge policy.

Supporters of the application, including Ashwin Mistry, Chair of Leicestershire Golf Club, and Jeevan Thandi, the planning consultant, argued that the development was necessary for the financial viability of the golf club, which they described as a community asset. They also highlighted the significant need for care home provision in the city. Dr Harai Virdee, a local resident, spoke against the application, raising concerns about flooding and highway safety.

Heacham Drive

The committee approved an application for the erection of 60 dwellings, with associated access, open space, drainage, and landscaping, on land off Heacham Drive. This approval was subject to conditions outlined in an addendum and the completion of a Section 106 agreement.

The application was recommended for approval by officers, with the committee voting nine in favour, one abstention, and none against. The development will provide a mix of market and affordable housing, with 20% of the total provision being affordable. The dwellings will range from two to five bedrooms and will be constructed to meet accessibility and adaptability standards.

The decision was influenced by the Council's inability to demonstrate a five-year housing land supply, triggering the tilted balance in favour of sustainable development. The emerging Local Plan also designates the site for housing, giving significant weight to the proposal.

The approval was subject to numerous conditions, including the submission and implementation of a Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan to enhance biodiversity, and a Construction Method Statement to manage environmental and safety aspects during construction. A Section 106 agreement will secure contributions towards NHS services and Parks and Open Spaces, as well as affordable housing and Biodiversity Net Gain.

Ellie Dukes, speaking on behalf of the applicant, Barratt David Wilson Homes North Midlands, highlighted the scheme's contribution to housing needs, its sustainable location, and the extensive consultation process. Councillor Joel, whose ward includes the development, welcomed the proposal, noting its contribution to housing needs and the quality of the houses built by the developer. Councillor Kennedy-Lount raised concerns about the timing of developer obligations related to biodiversity, but was reassured by officers. Councillor Devi Singh Patel also welcomed the proposal, noting the need for affordable housing.