Land adjacent to Oakhurst Rise, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL52 6JU

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• The effect of the proposed development upon the setting of designated heritage assets Ashley Manor and Charlton Manor
• The effect of the proposed development upon the natural environment with regard to the impact upon badger setts

What decided it

The absence of an executed planning obligation meant there was no certainty that affordable housing, the Local Wildlife Area and financial contributions would be delivered, causing the adverse impacts to significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits under the tilted balance.

The substantial weight given to housing delivery and affordable housing provision, moderate weight to economic and biodiversity benefits, and neutral weight to avoided harm to protected species were outweighed by the significant and demonstrable adverse impact of the absence of an executed planning obligation securing affordable housing, the Local Wildlife Area and financial contributions.