Plans for a major housing development at Cleator Moor have been proposed.

Gleeson Homes would like to build a 115-home estate on agricultural land at Cleator Mills, Cleator to the south of Main Street.

The housing company has submitted an application to Copeland council, for 115 two-storey two, three and four bedroom townhouses, semi-detached and detached houses on an area which is currently fields.

The application splits the housing between 12 two-bedroom affordable homes, and 103 market housing comprising: two two-bedroom houses, 66 three-bedroomed homes and 35 four-bedroom houses.

Vice-chair of Cleator Moor Town Council, Councillor Nick Ford, said: "In my personal opinion I am against it. There are quite enough planning applications going in here and green spaces are essential for well-being and health. Personally I don't think we need that many houses. I can't see that much demand. As far as I'm aware the population is decreasing not increasing, so it looks like they are cashing in on the rush to buy houses. After the crisis and furlough I think there will be lots of properties empty. Building on green space is not acceptable.

"Even National Planning Policy Framework advises against building on green especially when brown sites are available."

In the design and access statement the developers say the ethos of the design is to: "Create a high quality residential development. Create a legible and attractive place with a sense of identity. Create a sustainable and high quality living environment. Make efficient use of land in terms of ecological enhancement and density."

They add: "Gleeson Homes have collaborated with other consultants to prepare an appropriate design solution which responds to planning policy and site context while working to alleviate constraints and maximise the opportunities provided."

The main proposed access point for the build would be from Dearham Road.

A range of car parking solutions are planned, including 245 car spaces, driveways and garages.

The planning application is available to view and comment on at Copeland Council's planning portal reference: 4/20/2472/0F1.