The Proposals

The Masterplan

Previously, the development proposals included:

  • A new data centre providing up to 100 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) jobs;

  • An upgraded vehicular access via the A617 Mansfield Ashfield Regeneration Route (MARR), including potential for highways improvements along the MARR (subject to request by the Local Highways Authority). The existing road into the site, Rufford Colliery Lane, was constructed to serve the former colliery, and link workers to Rainworth. The road now also serves the sewage works and Cygnet healthcare facility;

  • Approximately 400 new residential homes, consisting of a policy-compliant mix of size, type, and tenure homes to meet the needs of local residents;

  • New public spaces, proposed to include a village green, play areas, natural open spaces, and improved public footpath access; and

  • Protection of the wider colliery site and its ecologically-sensitive remediation, including protection for established species and habitats.

The revised scheme now proposes the following:

  • Approximately 550 new residential homes, consisting of a mix of size, type, and tenure homes to meet the needs of local residents;

  • New public spaces, proposed to include a village green, play areas, natural open spaces, and improved public footpath access;

  • An upgraded vehicular access via the A617 Mansfield Ashfield Regeneration Route (MARR), including potential for highways improvements along the MARR (subject to request by the Local Highways Authority); and

  • Creation of a multi-use community hub building, including warden’s accommodation to support the protection of the wider colliery site and its ecologically-sensitive remediation, including protection for established species and habitats.

The Need for Development

The requirement for housing nationally has been increased, with the aim to build 1.5 million homes in Britain by 2029. As a result of this, Local Councils have seen an increase in their housing requirements.

Newark and Sherwood District Council was previously required to provide 437 new homes per year, and is now required to deliver 707 new homes per year, an increase of 62% per year. Newark and Sherwood District Council must now find new options for residential developments in a New Local Plan, beyond their existing allocated sites found in their adopted Local Plan, to meet these increased requirements

Newark and Sherwood District Council has recently published its annual 5-Year Housing Land position, which has confirmed that they are not able to demonstrate a 5-Year supply of housing. They are able to demonstrate a supply of 3.84 years. This is a significant shortfall that has now continued over a number of years. The presumption in favour of sustainable development outlined at Paragraph 11 of the National Planning Policy Framework and the tilted balance for decision-making (Paragraph 11d) is engaged.

The presumption favours granting permission unless a strong reason for refusal exists regarding protected sites or assets, or adverse impacts significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits. This decision lies with Newark and Sherwood District Council.

Harworth Group’s proposals for delivery of up to 550 dwellings at Rufford Colliery will contribute to meeting the local housing need with a mix of house type, tenure, and sizes to support local residents needs, alongside community uses.