PLANS to build a second phase of a Lyme Regis housing development have been recommended for approval - despite concerns over traffic.

West Dorset District Council's development control committee will tommorrow consider proposals by Bloor Homes to construct 56 homes at Woodberry Down, off Colway Lane in Lyme Regis.

The developers gave the first phase for 46 homes at Woodberry Copse the green light in January 2014 and construction is currently underway.

Planning officer Debbie Redding has recommended councillors approve the second phase - as long as 19 homes are made available for affordable housing and almost £100,000 is awarded to St Michael's Primary School for educational facilities.

In west Dorset, more than 950 households are registered as being in affordable housing need - with 45 having a connection to Lyme Regis.

The development features in the adopted local plan for West Dorset and Weymouth.

In her report to councillors, Ms Redding said: " The proposed development is considered to be acceptable being an allocated site within the adopted local plan and would not harm the landscape qualities of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or the visual amenities of the locality.

"Residential amenities would not be significantly compromised. Land stability, drainage and highway issues have been satisfactorily addressed."

Lyme Regis Town Council and local residents have objected to the plans because of concerns over increased traffic along Colway Lane.

A town council spokesperson said: "The route to the new development via Colway Lane is not up to a standard that will satisfy the increased demand of this development.

"We therefore have concerns for the safety of the pedestrians."
Dorset County Council's highways authority had no objection to the plans, and Ms Redding said the proposals could not be rejected because of "material highway reasons".

A part of the approvals for phase one of the development, Bloor Homes were required to contribute £50,000 in order for Colway Lane to be redeveloped.

Ms Redding added: "There has been concern raised in representations regarding the additional traffic generated by the development and safety in Colway Lane.

"These issues were raised previously at the time of the phase 1 application and have been addressed through the provision of the highway contribution and a travel plan. These measures are considered to be acceptable by the highway authority.

"Overall the applicants information and assessment of traffic and highway issues is considered to be acceptable and the road layout and parking provisions suitable to serve the development. Therefore there are no material highway reasons to prevent this development proceeding."

Councillors will consider the plans on Thursday, January 14.