CPRE Leicestershire objects to 180-home Cosby development

CPRE Leicestershire has formally submitted an objection to planning application 25/0489/OUT, known as the Cosby Outline proposal.

The application seeks outline permission for up to 180 homes on approximately 18 hectares of greenfield land off Broughton Road, Cosby.

We believe the proposal represents an unjustified encroachment into the open countryside and raises significant concerns for the future character of the village.

Why we're objecting

The proposed site sits entirely outside Cosby's established settlement boundary, on agricultural land that forms part of the village's rural setting.

Our objection highlights several key concerns:

• Loss of greenfield land: Development would permanently change approximately 18 hectares of open countryside and further extend the village into its rural surroundings.

• Impact on Cosby's character: The scale and location of the development risks eroding the rural setting that helps define the village.

• Premature development: Blaby District Council is currently preparing its new Local Plan. We believe major decisions about where future housing should go should be considered through that process.

• Pressure on local roads: The developer's own data indicates almost 200 additional vehicle movements during peak hours, adding further pressure to local junctions including The Nook.

• Car dependency: The location risks creating a development heavily reliant on private vehicles, conflicting with the need for more sustainable patterns of growth.

The right development in the right places

CPRE Leicestershire recognises the need for new homes. Our concern is where and how they are delivered.

Housing growth should be guided by robust local planning, supported by appropriate infrastructure and delivered in locations that minimise unnecessary loss of countryside.

For these reasons, we do not believe this greenfield site is the right location for a development of this scale.

Giving the countryside a voice

Planning decisions like this can permanently change the countryside surrounding our towns and villages.

CPRE Leicestershire will continue to scrutinise major proposals and speak up for better planning across the county.

If you value Leicestershire's countryside, become a member and help strengthen our voice.