A controversial planning application in Shotley has been deferred to allow the newly elected planning committee to visit the site.

The application to build 43 new homes, including 15 affordable and social houses, was heard by the Babergh District Council panning committee this morning at Endeavour House in Ipswich.

Babergh planning officers had recommended refusal to the planning committee but councillors questioned the reasons for refusal and it was admitted some, including concerns over flooding, the affordable, heritage and housing allocation were no longer relevant.

Concerns over heritage aspects, and landscaping, were also questioned by planning committee members.

It was agreed the new planning committee, of which nine of the 11 had never visited the site, would make a formal site inspection.

That is expected to take place nevi Wednesday, with the planning committee due to reconvene the following Wednesday to determine the decision for the application.

Following the meeting a member of the public confronted Babergh district councillor Ganges ward member Derek Davis who had told the committee the vast majority of villagers were against the application. He added that many people on the peninsula did not want any further housing, for a variety of reasons, including a large increase in traffic,

However, he also pointed out that the application had many positive aspects especially in terms of social housing, which would provide social housing at affordable rent and shared ownership, open space, and green initiatives, including solar panels on every house. air source heat systems on every house, electric vehicle charging points on every house. The scheme also offers a free car park open to villagers ignorer to alleviate the parking issues and traffic flow problems on the Street.

Shotley parish clerk Dina Bedwell explained why the parish was against the theme, while the objectors' paid-for planning consultant Steve Miller offered reasons paint but spent much of his time arguing about the former HMS Ganges's decision made eight years ago.

Architect and agent Roger Balmer, outlined how the many benefits outweighed the perceived harm.

Applicant Richard and Hazel Wrinch were present but were not allowed to speak. Mr Wrinch provided land, which the eight social houses at Chapel Fields were built, paid for ay the affordable homes contribution made by Shotley Marina, as part of their development at Shotley Lodge and Admiralty Pier.

Social housing land provided by applicant (Picture: Nub News)

Following the meeting Cllr Davis was aggressively confronted by resident John Davitt, who lives opposite the proposed site, who felt he should have only represented his view.

Cllr Davis said: "I have stood up against bullies all my life and will continue to do so. As a ward member I have duty to represent everyone's views, not just the NIMBY's.

"This is a complex application and I have attempted to give a fair representation of all views, I will continue to do so and will not be intimidated by anyone."

The application DC/22/05162 can be found here...