Plans for a major mixed use scheme on a golf course site have been given the green light.
Brackley Property Development has gained planning to put up restaurants, cafes, a nursery, offices and warehouses on a 17 acre area of the Broughton Astley Golf complex, a few miles from the M1 in west Leicestershire.
The plans, approved by Harborough District Council, are for land on the main road just outside the village.
Brackley has been marketing the scheme as having industrial and warehouse units ranging in size from 5,000 to 100,000 sq ft, with offices from 5,000 to 25,000 sq ft.
Agent for the developers Lance Wiggins told councillors: “My clients are already in discussions with some local occupiers who wish to expand their businesses in the area, safeguarding and generating additional employment in the local economy.”
He said it would boost the village’s economy and create a quality commercial development.
Residents have called for a pelican crossing to be put on the nearby Sutton Lane to improve the safety of pedestrians and 300 people signed a petition for it.
A district council planning spokesman said: “The scheme provides new economic development both during construction and, once built, through a variety of uses which would contribute towards the local economy and employment.
“The proposed uses will help make Broughton Astley a more sustainable settlement whilst complementing, rather than competing with, the existing village centre.
“It also provides new leisure and healthcare units and a children’s nursery which would support local people in working in the commercial units. The site can also be accessed by sustainable modes of transport, which may contribute towards health and well-being and is accessible to the village centre.
Councillors voted to approve the plan by eight to one.
