Plans for five new homes on a nursery site have been approved by Forest of Dean District Council, despite an officer’s recommendation to refuse.

The homes will replace existing buildings at the Paget Nurseries in Redmarley.

Town planner Paul Barton (pictured) from Bruton Knowles worked with officers to minimise as many issues as possible before going to the committee.

He said: “We were able to assure officers that transport would not be impacted and that the removal of structures would be a benefit to heritage assets.

“Officers were faced with a finely balanced decision with many competing factors, and whilst their recommendation was understandable, we were pleased that members agreed there would be an overall improvement to the site, which would add to the council’s housing supply.”

In the meantime, the district council has invited suggestions for land suitable for sites to include in its Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment. Paul Barton said the sites could be plots of land suitable for housing, employment and other non-residential uses.

He added: “As the Paget Nursery planning application demonstrated, obtaining the right advice is critical before proceeding with any planning issue.”

You can find the form here and all completed forms must be returned by Monday 30th April to LDF@fdean.gov.uk.