The proposed development would result in the infilling of breaks in the built form of Woodthorpe. These are considered to be an integral element of the identity of the hamlet, contributing to is linear and dispersed built form. It would therefore be harmful to the sense of place and local distinctiveness of Woodthorpe and would be contrary to Policy CS11 of the Charnwood Local Plan 2011 to 2028 Core Strategy and Policy EV1 of the emerging Charnwood Local Plan 2021-37.

The proposed development lies in the countryside as defined by the adopted Charnwood Local Plan 2004 and Policy DS1 of the emerging Charnwood Local Plan 2021-37. It is not amongst the exceptions to development in countryside locations identified by Charnwood Local Plan Policy CT/1 or Policy C1 of the emerging Local Plan 2021-37.The introduction residential development in such a location would result in a dependence on use of the private car to access services and facilities and as such it is not a sustainable location for such development. It is therefore contrary to saved policy CT/1 of the adopted Charnwood Local Plan 2004, Policies CS1 and CS25 of the Charnwood Local Plan 2011 to 2028 Core Strategy and DS1 of the emerging Charnwood Local Plan 2021-37. It is not considered that the harm arising from development is outweighed by the modest benefits accruing from the development.