Plans for 240 homes thrown out over noise concerns
GoogleA housing development has been blocked following concerns it will be too noisy for residents.
A developer had hoped to build 240 homes on land north of Elsenham, Essex, between the M11 and railway lines.
Planning officer Chris Tyler told an Uttlesford District Council meeting on Wednesday that sound assessments "advised a number of windows would need to remain closed to provide appropriate internal noise levels".
A previous plan for 220 homes was refused in 2019 and dismissed at appeal in 2021, with the planning inspector also raising noise concerns.
Mr Tyler said levels in many proposed gardens would exceed the upper guideline of 55 decibels, and it would likely be the same in any public open space.
Graham Mott, chairman of Elsenham Parish Council, also objected to the site.
Speaking on behalf of Elsenham, Henham and Ugley Parish Councils, he said: "The three parish councils and several officers are united in opposing this application, regardless of any supposed benefits.
"You cannot get away from the noise, it's unremitting, unrelenting and inescapable, well except perhaps on Christmas Day."
The Local Democracy Reporting Service said the council raised additional concerns about protected species being potentially affected, as well as financial contributions.
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