THE Napsbury site in London Colney may include more houses than previously approved if a new plan is approved by St Albans District Council.

Crest Nicholson Residential the construction company in charge of the development has submitted an outline plan for the entire site, which includes building 545 new houses.

In addition to the overall plan Crest Nicholson also applied for permission to build 145 affordable homes. The proposals also include provision of a shop, creche and possibly a health club and small offices.

It is a significant departure from the original plan which was approved by the Secretary of State to build 420 houses. However, the revised plan would take up no more area in terms of floor space.

Representing Crest Nicholson at a St Albans District Council planning meeting last Monday, November 11, Mr Scott Black said that in addition to providing more affordable housing the company plans to increase contributions towards the provision of leisure and education.

When the district council and Hertfordshire County Council discussed the project, the highways department had stated that the additional houses were likely to increase traffic congestion around London Colney.

It was a view echoed by London Colney Parish Council, which feared another 145 homes would mean disruption.

Last week's meeting was due to be attended by a county council highways officer so there could be discussion. However, he was unable to attend so a decision was deferred until the next meeting.