Council appeals after Pickles backs 800-home scheme near Hathaway's cottage

Stratford-on-Avon District Council is to launch an appeal against a decision by the Communities Secretary to grant planning permission for the building of 800 homes at land near Anne Hathaway’s cottage.

The local authority’s regulatory committee last week unanimously backed a recommendation that the monitoring officer instigate proceedings over the decision.

Eric Pickles approved an appeal by JS Bloor Homes on 25 October. The developer intends to build a new primary school, a health centre and local shops as well as houses on the site, which is in Shottery.

Cllr Chris Williams, chairman of the committee, said: “The committee was unanimous in its decision, showing full support for the course of action."

Stratford-on-Avon said its plan to contest the Communities Secretary’s decision was based on legal advice.

Cllr Chris Saint, Leader of Stratford-on-Avon, said: “I attended the committee and watched proceedings and was pleased that a unanimous decision was made that reflected the many representations I have received."

Anne Hathaway's cottage is a house where the wife of William Shakespeare lived as a child. It is owned by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.