Development of 93 homes in Coventry takes step forward
The construction of 93 new homes has taken a step forward in Coventry as key details have been finalised. The development, called The Watchmakers, is underway on the land off Isadora Lea.
The plan would see the development of 6.38 acres of vacant land, with 25% of the properties set to be offered as affordable housing. Developers will build a new playground in the area and will leave 5,176sqm of open space undeveloped for public use.
The Barratt Homes plan sparked controversy when it was first announced in 2023. Locals filed more than 94 objections in the initial stages.
Issues raised by residents included concerns local roads would not be able to handle the extra traffic or may be damaged by the construction works. Councillor for Lower Stoke John McNicholas said he had hoped for development to be less dense than the intended 93 homes, adding a lack of public spaces in the area is already an issue.
Despite locals’ concerns, Coventry city council gave planning permission for the construction in 2024, with requirements to prevent disruption to local residents and the environment. A construction management plan was agreed by the council this week (24 March.)
The council’s original requirements for this scheme included a request for a drive through wheel bath for all construction vehicles to remove dirt from wheels. But the council approved construction without this after Barratt Homes argued the plot had inadequate space for such a facility.
However planners deemed plans outlined by Barratt Homes in the Construction & Environmental Management Plan to be sufficient, with a dedicated jet wash to be used on all vehicles, and regular road sweeping on nearby roads.
The management plan also outlines the steps that will be taken to mitigate any issues for neighbours, including those of safety, noise, and traffic. Any noisy construction will be limited to between 07:00 and 19:00 Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 13:00 on a Saturday or at any time on a Sunday.
The plan says: “Barratt Homes are committed to ensuring the highest standards of health, safety and welfare for the workforce and the public at all times.”
A spokesperson from Barratt Homes said: "Construction at our development The Watchmakers in Coventry started last August as planned, with the initial works on the roads and the sewers. We will be opening our sales centre and show homes in May."
