A controversial decision to press ahead with a new £15million development of 50 eco homes in Elmswell has been called in for a review by councillors.
Mid Suffolk District Council’s (MSDC) decision to move forward with the low-carbon housing scheme in the growing village will now be sent to its scrutiny committee.
The contentious proposal was for land off School Road and Church Road, which had been suggested as a site for a new primary school.
A petition for a new primary school on the site gained around 600 signatures – including 300 in the first 48 hours.
A decision about a new school would rest with the county council.
MSDC Andrew Mellen, leader of the Green and Liberal Democrat group, said: “We would like the cabinet to have another look at the decision.
“Scrutiny could reject the call-in and say it is a sound decision or send it back for reconsideration at cabinet – which I think is most likely.
“I think the cabinet and officers accept that the plan needs to be looked at more closely.
“I know there is no immediate pressure for a school here, partly because the existing Elmswell school has been expanded.
“My concern is that there is a potential school in Woolpit that will be seen as being able to take in new pupils in Elmswell.
“There is quite a strong feeling in Elmswell that parents here shouldn’t have to bus their pupils across the A14 to this school.
“There are barriers to overcome for a new school on the land off School Road and Church Road but I think it could still be possible with some creative thinking.
“I expect the eco home development would hit a really big hurdle at planning committee.
“I’m not entirely convinced it would get approval because Elmswell has plenty of land for housing development and the land off School Road and Church Road is designated as public open space.”
Harry Richardson, cabinet member for economic growth, told councillors: “Unfortunately, we don’t think we will get the secretary of state’s approval for using the land for a primary school.
“We’ve had extensive conversations with local stakeholders but the approach we’ve taken on the advice of officers is that this site is suitable for housing and there is a need for housing in Elmswell and the local area – particularly affordable homes."
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