COUNCILLORS are expected to give the green light to a planning application to build over 100 homes on a former factory site. The application by Croudace Homes is for 115 homes on the old Neosid site in Icknield Way, Letchworth GC. In the report by North H

COUNCILLORS are expected to give the green light to a planning application to build over 100 homes on a former factory site.

The application by Croudace Homes is for 115 homes on the old Neosid site in Icknield Way, Letchworth GC.

In the report by North Herts District Council's (NHDC) planning officer, councillors will hear tonight (Thursday), when they discuss the application, consideration should be made to the site's industrial past.

NHDC's environmental protection officer says in the report: "Taking into account the industrial nature of this site, a condition is recommended relating to the applicant's identifying levels of contamination likely to be harmful and all remediation measures must be agreed and carried out before any dwellings are occupied."

The officer also says the site is surrounded by residential properties and a railway to the rear and there is a recommendation there should be a condition relating to the control of noise during the construction period.

"Any residential properties would need to be at least 10 metres away from the railway track," says the report.

A number of residents in nearby Icknield Way and Horace Gay Gardens have expressed their objections to the plans mostly on houses over two-storeys looking over on to their properties and causing loss of light; problems of extra traffic in Icknield Way which is used as a rat run to Hitchin; lack of adequate parking in the area and loss of privacy.

Letchworth Garden City Council has said there appears to be an over development by five dwellings while Network Rail has raised health and safety concerns regarding the proximity of the development to the railway network in relation to construction activities, security and ensuring no disruption to railway operations.

Hertfordshire County Council has withdrawn its original objections to the scheme after amended plans were submitted to overcome the council's misgivings concerning suitable turning areas for service and emergency vehicles.

Croudace Homes has also agreed to a number of Section 106 financial agreements including a payment of �60,640 towards the provision and enhancement of nearby Wilbury Recreation Ground and �25,000 towards the enhancement of Norton Common.

The builders will also make payments towards secondary education provision and for a sustainable transport infrastructure, childcare and youth provision and library services.