THE second phase of a housing development planned for a Selby village could see 115 new homes being built.

Linden Homes Ltd has applied to Selby District Council for permission to create the estate on land to the east of Low Street in South Milford after a neighbouring scheme was approved last year.

The initial wave of work will see 35 homes built on an adjacent site next to Southlands House. Construction is due to start later this year, and Linden said it hoped its proposals for the next stage of development would mean increased trade for local businesses.

The land where the homes would be built is currently occupied by derelict greenhouses which were once part of a nursery business. The company’s plans outline 43 two-bedroom, 55 three-bedroom, 13 four-bedroom and four five-bedroom properties, as well as a 1.24-acre patch of open space.

Although the area is a greenfield site, a previous public inquiry has deemed it suitable for development. A planning statement submitted to the council by Thompson Spencer Architects says: “Our development could only have a positive impact on businesses and investment in the area.

“Businesses will have the benefit of extra custom and potential employees are also evident in the future occupants of the proposed dwellings, providing continuing workforces in the local area.”

The applicants also said the new homes, if approved, would not “harm the character” of South Milford and their layout would provide “a high standard of living”. The design includes a cycle link between Low Street and Lund Syke Lane and a decision is expected in September.

Agents acting for Linden Homes said discussions had been held with the local parish council, which had raised concerns about the previous housing application and felt the number of houses proposed under the latest application should be lowered.

However, the firm said contractual obligations and council guidelines had led them to draw up plans for 115 houses, of which some will be affordable.