The Planning Committee of South Holland Council met on Wednesday 23 September 2026, approving three planning applications and deferring one. The committee also noted a report on planning appeals.

Development of 57 Affordable Dwellings in Holbeach

The committee approved a full application for the development of 57 affordable dwellings, with associated access, open space, and drainage, at Land South of Wignals Gate, Holbeach¹. Councillor Sophie Hutchinson, as the ward member, presented a revised layout demonstrating that previously requested changes could be accommodated. Concerns were raised regarding the proposed layout's respect for neighbouring residents and its contribution to placemaking. There were also worries about existing infrastructure capacity and the absence of contributions towards health and education, despite a viability assessment being conducted. The committee noted the significant lack of affordable housing in the district and acknowledged that this development would help address that need. Officers confirmed that maintenance arrangements and the condition of the attenuation pond could be enforced through existing conditions and the enforcement team, with further wording to be added to address specific member concerns.

Food Store and Drive-Thru Development in Spalding Deferred

A full application for the development of a food store and drive-thru, with associated works and access, at Land to the South of Holbeach Road, Spalding², was deferred. Councillor Robert Gibson, the ward member, raised concerns about the proposed entrance and exit onto the A151, a busy road, fearing it would exacerbate existing traffic problems. Committee members shared these concerns about highway safety and traffic congestion. Other issues discussed included the potential impact on Spalding town centre's retail offering, the need for a separate entrance for a nearby hotel complex, and the amenity of neighbouring residents, considering factors like overbearing structures, overshadowing, privacy, and traffic generation. The retail impact assessment was questioned for not establishing a clear need for the development or detailing its impact on other retail areas. The committee also noted concerns about HGVs using the same road as disabled parking bays. It was suggested that Highways review the safety of exiting onto the A151 and that an alternative egress to the A16 be considered. The application was deferred to gain further clarity on the assessment of the site's entrance and exit, the retail impact assessment, and the amenity of the neighbouring bungalow.

Refurbishment of Spalding United Youth Football Club Pavilion Approved

The committee approved a full application for the proposed refurbishment of the Sports Pavilion and repairs to the existing roof, along with the erection of a storage shed, at Spalding United Football Club, Pennygate, Spalding³. Members applauded Spalding United's work in developing football across age groups and expressed pleasure at the pavilion's improvement.

Dropped Kerb Applications Approved

Two full applications for dropped kerbs to form vehicular access and concrete hardstanding were approved. The first was for 1 Green Bank, Whaplode Drove, Spalding⁴, and the second for 74 Station Road, Tydd Gote, Wisbech⁵. Members had no comments to make on either application.

Planning Appeals Noted

The committee noted a report providing an update on recent planning appeal decisions. Members were advised to contact the relevant case officer for any queries regarding these decisions.