A decision on whether a Harry Potter star’s family can build their own eco-Hogsmeade in a Herts village is expected this summer.

The planning application for 15 homes, which has attracted criticism from neighbours, was originally due to be decided in winter 2023.

The family of Harry Potter star Rupert Grint submitted full plans to North Herts Council in October last year.

According to documents by the developer, the plan is to create a “truly outstanding and innovative proposal for development within the Green Belt”.

The Comet: An artists impression of one of the proposed Kimpton Grange homes.

If agreed, the developer would transform The Lodge at Kimpton Grange into six apartments.

Four terraced two-bed homes and five detached houses would also be built in the countryside estate, between Luton and Welwyn.

On The Lodge, the developer’s submission reads: “The proposals seek to restore and old building within the Green Belt, saving it from further decay and damage.”

The Comet: A map of proposals for Kimpton Grange, Hertfordshire.

It adds the number of buildings proposed is a reduction over the existing buildings, and will provide “a measurable improvement to openness in the Green Belt”.

The submission reads: “The proposal brings Kimpton Grange onto a new distinct design of today, reflecting not only the highest standards of aesthetic architecture in the context of the historic buildings and the settings of the Conservation Area, but also how buildings can be built to meet the qualities of Net Zero.”

Affordable family homes, a community park and circular walk, a picnic area and forest school resources would be created for “community benefit”.

North Herts Council has received 15 comments on the proposal, which feature on its online portal.

Thirteen comments are in opposition to the plans.

The Comet: The existing and proposed elevations at Kimpton Grange, as viewed from above Kimpton Bottom.

One neighbour in Kimpton High Street wrote: “We have enough traffic flow problems in the village already.

“I have had two cars written off outside my house and regular damage to others.

“There is no need to chop down trees and build houses facing the road.

“Are they really affordable homes or just very small?

“Kimpton and Kimpton Bottom should be kept separate we don’t need to connect the two and begin ribbon development.”

A “neutral” commenter from Kimpton Bottom fears a precedent may be set “were Green Belt and conservation area count for nothing”.

They added: “The stretch of well established woodland along Kimpton Bottom near the junction to the High Street and Luton Road has been a recognised rookery for over a century, and should not be disregarded casually.”

The Comet: The Grint family has asked North Herts Council for permission to transform Kimpton Grange into a

A commenter in support said: “Looking at these plans it is very clear that a considerable amount of time, work and effort has been made to create an exciting new era for The Grange while being sympathetic to the environment.”

North Herts Council’s website sets out a decision is due before July 31, 2023.