Badger concerns raised over 55-home Melton development

Plans have been proposed for 55 homes near St Andrews Place in Melton, however concerned locals fear its impact could be very damaging to a badger sett.

The site, which has faced long-standing opposition from residents, is believed to be home to active badger activity that could be threatened by the new construction.

Melton Parish Council said evidence of badger movement has been recorded on the site, including footage captured on residents’ home CCTV.

A council spokeswoman said: "There is evidence of badger activity on the site, including evidence captured on residents' home CCTV.

Ruby Homes is planning to build 55 homes on the land at St Andrews Place in Melton (Image: Savills)

"This should be properly investigated by a suitably qualified ecologist before any works commence."

She said that if a sett or other signs of activity are found, appropriate measures should be put in place to protect them and to ensure that construction works do not cause harm or disturbance.

Nearby resident Nyree Fincham said she has regularly seen badgers in the area and has recorded them on camera.

Evidence has been found of badger activity at St Andrews Place in Melton (Image: Submitted)

She said: "Every night we have badgers visiting us and the sett is nearby.

"I have camera footage and mobile phone footage and photos."

She said the development plans pose a direct threat to the animals.

"The developers want to put a cycle route right through the badgers sett and the homes would certainly put the badgers at risk or be killed."

Nyree feels her concerns about the badger sett are not being listened to (Image: Submitted)

She said the badgers are protected by law but feels her concerns are not being taken seriously.

The scheme, which is being led by Ruby Homes, has faced a number of objections since plans were first submitted in 2019.

Concerns have been raised about traffic, parking, pedestrian safety, and flooding.

East Suffolk Council refused the original application in 2022, citing concerns about increased traffic.

However, a planning inspector later overturned the decision in March 2023, ruling that the access and traffic impact were acceptable.

The development is now at the reserved matters stage, where detailed plans are under consideration.