CONSTRUCTION work will begin this week on a controversial housing development in Ulverston.

Initial infrastructure work will take place in the next few days to build 92 homes in West End Lane.

The development, which is located close to Siemens factory and Ulverston Leisure Centre, will comprise of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes. However, the site, headed by Story Homes, is classed as a medium flood risk area, causing concern among councillors and residents.

Ulverston Town Councillor Andrew Butcher voted against the plans, describing the flood risk as a ‘big issue’.

He said: “I don’t think we should be building in inappropriate places.

“I have very serious worries. I voted against the plans and think it’s going to increase water in other areas. There’s patches of water all over the field especially when we see rain coming. I’m not against building houses but why are we building on flood plains? All the water comes to South Ulverston which creates a serious problem for people who live near that area.”

The housing developer, however, said 35 per cent of the properties on the development will be classed as affordable homes.

The company also claims the complex will bring economic benefits to the area during the construction phase, including sustaining jobs for local subcontractors and support for local businesses as well as supply chains.

A spokeswoman for Story Homes said: “Story Homes is currently undertaking Section 278 works to the existing highway for the new Laurel Place development in Ulverston, and on-site works will officially begin this week on the foundations for the show home area.

“During the initial nationwide lockdown back in March, Story Homes temporarily closed all building sites, which did cause a slight delay to works beginning at Laurel Place.

“However we are very pleased with the progress made to date and we anticipate that the first legal completions of properties at the development will take place in Spring/Summer 2021.

"Regarding Councillor Butcher’s concerns, Story Homes produced a robust Flood Risk Assessment and Drainage Strategy which was submitted as part of the approved planning application.

"The application was scrutinised by both the Environment Agency and Lead Local Flood Authority who found that the development would not exacerbate flooding elsewhere in the area.

"The site was found to be suitable for development and as such, was granted detailed planning permission by the local council.”