SECRETARY OF STATE DECIDES ON DERBY URBAN EXTENSIONS

On 26 January 2009, the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government issued her decision on five competing applications for large housing scheme on or close to the southern edge of Derby. The applications were considered at a conjoined public inquiry of six month duration, ending in January 2007. The Secretary of State concluded that there was an urgent need to release land for housing to the south of Derby to meet a significant shortfall. She followed her Inspector's recommendation and granted permission for three of the five proposals including that promoted at Boulton Moor, Alvaston. The urban extension proposal, comprising in excess of 1,000 new homes, a local centre, open space and a large park and ride facility, was described as by the Secretary of State as "incorporating the best principles of urban design". She considered that the proposed park and ride would improve "immeasurably" accessibility to Derby City Centre.

Robin Purchas QC and Douglas Edwards acted for the promoters of the Boulton Moor proposal. They were instructed by Ian Tant of Barton Willmore.