PLANS to increase the population of a village by up to 25 per cent by adding more homes have been given the go-ahead, despite flooding worries.

Residents living next to the new development site in Macmerry had raised concerns that it would add to flooding issues which have plagued them for a decade.

And there were concerns about how the village, with a population of 1,300, would cope with the arrival of up to 25 per cent more people.

The plans for 94 houses and eight flats to be built north of the village at Greendykes Farm were approved at a meeting of East Lothian Council’s planning committee.

Officials told the committee that, rather than add to the flooding issues which people living on neighbouring St Germains Terrace had experienced, the new houses could offer a solution.

Taylor Wimpey, which is planning the latest build, also confirmed it was keen to help the council find a solution to the issue.

The committee was told that the flooding was being caused by surface water from a burst pipe.

A council official told the planning committee: “There have been severe ongoing flooding issues in St Germains Terrace.

“The new development would not have any impact on the current surface water and problems with St Germains Terrace.

“It may allow us to investigate developing a connection to their drainage system which will improve that situation.”

The committee was told that East Lothian Council intended to take ownership of 26 affordable homes planned for the site once built and would use them for social renting.

The planning application was unanimously approved by councillors.