A new development of 40 houses and bungalows could be built in a Shropshire village, if plans are approved.

The scheme, which includes 18 affordable homes, has been put forward for a plot of land to the south of Chirbury, accessed off the A490.

The majority of the site is allocated for housing in Shropshire Council’s development plan, and a planning application has now been lodged by the landowner, the Lymore Estate.

It seeks full permission for phase one of the development, for the first 13 affordable homes, as well as outline consent the rest of the properties to be built later.

A planning, design and access statement by Alan Southerby Design Ltd, agent to the applicant, says: “The layout and scale of the development maximises available amenity space, whilst also ensuring a positive outlook and opportunities for solar gain through orientation.

“External appearance will be kept close to that which exists locally in order to ensure an appropriate level of change, and to create a sympathetic development that respects its setting, including the adjacent conservation area.”

The statement says that while the “overwhelming majority” of the land is allocated for housing, an additional area has been included in the proposals to “provide cross subsidy and aid viability”, allowing the high proportion of affordable housing to be delivered.

The affordable homes will be managed by a registered social landlord.

“The character and appearance of the local area is mixed, but un-mistakenly that of a village location,” the statement says.

“The design successfully retains and respects that existing character.

“Within this context, it can be seen how the proposed scheme will maintain the existing mix of development locally, providing new development that responds positively to its location and setting.”

The development will provide a mix of two, three and four-bed properties, all with private gardens and parking.

The statement says the site is in a good location near the village school, pub, church and open spaces, and adds that “no unacceptable increase in traffic is anticipated”.

It concludes: “The proposed residential scheme is a good example of how a sustainable community hub site and location can be successfully brought forward to provide much needed new housing, whilst also respecting its character and that of its surroundings.”

The application will be decided by Shropshire Council.