Derelict stadium earns council a �500 fee as developers re-apply to build 83 homes

THE empty stadium once occupied by Wisbech Town FC earned Fenland Council a �500 boost this week – by staying empty.

That’s the sum paid by Peter Humphrey Associates Ltd to the council to keep alive an application to build 83 homes on the site of the derelict stadium.

Purple Property (UK) Ltd acquired the site in a �1 million deal some years ago but the lack of enthusiasm for house building has stopped any of the homes from being built.

Robin Briscoe of Peter Humphrey Associates said the new permission now sought was identical to that approved in 2009.

“With regard to the planning fee payable for the new permission, following guidance issued by the planning office we enclose our client’s cheque in the sum of �500,” said Mr Briscoe in a letter to Fenland Council.

Once building does get under way the developers will be required to ensure that a third of the homes on the Lerowe Road site come under the banner of what is termed affordable housing.

They will also be obliged to make a �64,000 payment to boost local leisure amenities.

The approved scheme allows for 19 four bedroom homes, 35 three bedroom houses, 18 two bed homes, six two bed room flats and five one bedroom flats.