A new housing development of up to 240 homes has been proposed for land off Eccleshall Road in Stone, and residents are being invited to share their views before plans progress.
Richborough Estates has launched a public consultation on the scheme, which is located on approximately 11.2 hectares of agricultural land adjacent to the town’s settlement boundary. The proposal includes a mix of property sizes and types, with a focus on affordability, green spaces, and community facilities.
What’s being proposed
The developer aims to build a community of up to 240 homes, with 30% allocated as affordable housing. This could include a blend of shared ownership, rental, and low-cost housing to meet local needs.
In addition to the housing, the illustrative masterplan outlines:
- A new vehicular access from Eccleshall Road, with internal roads and car parking
- A Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) pond to the north of the site
- Public open spaces and biodiversity enhancements within the site
- Landscaped walking paths around the southern perimeter
- A children’s play facility in the centre of the development
- New planting and landscaping throughout, including street trees and boundary vegetation
Richborough Estates considers the site an ideal opportunity to deliver a high-quality, attractive, and well-integrated new neighbourhood that forms a natural extension to Stone.
Have your say
The consultation is currently open, providing residents with the chance to view the plans and offer feedback online.
A dedicated consultation website – www.eccleshallroadconsultation.com – has been set up where people can read about the proposal, view site plans, and fill in a feedback form. Comments close on the 19th May 2025.
Design and technical work relating to the proposals is ongoing, and the information presented may be subject to change to address this ongoing work and any issues raised through the consultation.
Planning background and local context
The site is bound by Eccleshall Road to the north, residential development to the east, land safeguarded for HS2 to the west, and Walton Heath to the south. It is within walking distance of local facilities and public transport links, making it a sustainable location for development.
The Environment Agency Flood Maps confirm that the site is located within Flood Zone 1, indicating the lowest risk of flooding. There are no statutory designated heritage assets within the site boundary.
While the site is not currently allocated in the adopted Local Plan, it is considered by the developer as a logical extension to the town, providing much-needed housing and community facilities.
What happens next?
Following the consultation, Richborough Estates intends to submit an outline planning application to Stafford Borough Council. All details except access will be approved at the Reserved Matters stage.
The outline application will include the proposed description of development: the erection of up to 240 residential dwellings, with associated infrastructure works, including access (vehicular, pedestrian, and cycle), drainage, public open space, and landscaping.
Once the application is submitted, it will go through the usual planning process, with opportunities for formal comment and a final decision by the council’s planning committee.
How to get involved
- Visit www.eccleshallroadconsultation.com to read more and submit feedback.
- Stay informed about upcoming consultation events and planning submissions by registering for updates on the consultation website.
- Engage with local council meetings to voice opinions and stay abreast of planning discussions.
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