The council’s local plan, adopted in May 2014, designated Coates as a “Limited Growth Village” and still remains in force after the emerging local plan was withdrawn in December. The homes would have ranged from two-bed terraces to five-bed detached homes with land also safeguarded for a new primary school. 56 objections were raised by neighbours fearing the impact the plans would have on local services and infrastructure. Christopher Boyle, speaking on behalf of the developer, said the council’s local plan is “materially out of date” and inconsistent with national planning policy. Bob Wicks, town councillor for Coates, also said the infrastructure would not be able to cope with the new homes.