Latest planning application for 250 new homes in Lawley is out for consultation

Hundreds of residents told the applicants last summer that they were more than 80 per cent opposed to building on the greenfield site known as Lawley West.

Others had labelled the design ridiculous.

The applicants behind the plan for the backfilled former coal mine site west of Lawley Drive are Telford & Wrekin Council itself and Homes England.

The planning agents say that mine workings “are not considered by [the council] to be a constraint to the development to the site".

There were 286 responses to last summer’s consultation, with 85 per cent against access and road arrangements, and car parking provision, the planning documents reveal.

“Many respondents were concerned that the proposed development would result in [the loss of] one of the last remaining green spaces in Lawley and is used by children, dog walkers, and local wildlife,” say the planning documents compiled by agents AtkinsRéalis.

“While the final layout of the development would be determined at the reserved matters stage, the site’s topography lends itself to providing new dwellings with attractive vistas across the Wrekin.

“The site’s boundaries also benefit from natural buffers from existing trees and hedgerows, which would provide a level of screening.”

The proposed development on the 15.26-hectare site would form part of the Lawley West project, which the documents reveal are a “key part of the council’s plans to grow housing supply under the Telford Land Deal".

This site represents the final phases of the Lawley Village development, a project that has been evolving over the past decade, say the agents.

There is also concern among locals that local infrastructure would be unable to support all the extra traffic, and would put pressure on schools, GPs and dentists.

The development could provide payments to help with coping with demands on NHS services, the documents read.

Lawley West has been allocated for residential development under the Telford and Wrekin Local Plan (2018).

The site is “characterised by green fields predominantly used for grazing” but is considered to be part of the built-up area of Telford in planning terms.

It also has areas of trees and vegetation, has public rights of way and Ketley Brook running through the land and a caravan park.

The planning documents say that the council will seek to provide housing that is as affordable as possible for residents most in need.

The planning application seeks outline permission at this stage with the full details set to be submitted if it is approved.

“This proposed development would enable [the council] to deliver one of its residential allocations and make a positive contribution toward the housing targets through a sustainable and well-designed development that is in accordance with the appropriate planning policy.

“Should outline planning permission be granted, a marketing process will be initiated to identify a potential developer to undertake the reserved matters elements of the scheme.

“This process will involve engaging with a range of developers to find the most suitable partner to bring the project to fruition.”

A planning application is open for public consultation on the Telford & Wrekin Council planning portal with the reference TWC/2025/0022.