FORMER South Dorset MP Lord Knight is leading the opposition to a new homes plan for the edge of Weymouth.

Marylebone Developments Ltd has submitted an outline planning application to Weymouth and Portland Borough Council for 30 homes and a community hall on land off Nottington Lane in Nottington.

Nottington resident Jim Knight is among the objectors.

A mixture of two, three and four-bedroom properties have been proposed on two separate but adjoining parcels of land which sit outside the development boundary.

If successful, various highway improvements would be made, including carriageway widening and the provision of a pedestrian footpath. The proposal would also include a purpose-built community facility.

As an outline application, Marylebone Developments Ltd is seeking the acceptance of the principle of development and approval of access arrangements.

At the time of writing, the application has received 11 objections. Residents are concerned the development could lead to issues revolving around traffic, flooding and conservation status.

Lord Jim and Lady Anna Knight, who live in Nottington, have written to object the scheme.

In a letter the couple write: “This development would replace a prominent field system, at the entrance to the hamlet, with intensive development that will destroy the views and vistas of the three most prominent buildings in Nottington – the Spa House, Greystones, and Duetzia Cottage.

“The application is not only outside the development boundary but will be of considerable detriment to the conservation area.”

In an email, Michael Beament, who lives at Nottington Court, said he strongly objected to the development.

He said: “Large amounts of noise from (the) village hall could run all day and into the night making our residents' life hell, as they are mostly retired and bought their properties at Nottington Court for the peace, tranquillity and wildlife in their latter years.”

In Marylebone Developments Ltd’s planning, design and heritage statement, it reads: “Although the site is outside the development boundary, the principle of residential development is consistent with the presumption in favour of sustainable development, which underpins the National Planning Policy Framework.”

People are able to make comments on the application until Thursday, March 12 by visiting www.dorsetforyou.com/planning

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