Plans for 1,100 new homes between Kenilworth and Leamington Spa have taken a major step forward.

Taylor Wimpey revealed designs for the major new estate around Sandy Lane in Milverton earlier this year.

A public consultation has already been held as the developer gets ready to submit a full planning application.

And now it has been told by Warwick District Council that a full 'environmental impact assessment' (EIA) is needed on the huge piece of land.

Taylor Wimpey asked the council earlier this year whether the assessment was necessary.

"The proposed development will institute a visual change within the wider rural setting of the Royal Leamington Spa Conservation Area, this will not bear any impact on the ability to appreciate the conservation area's special character or aesthetic value within its designation, where its setting makes a positive contribution to its significance," an application to the council said.

"As development across land which makes no more than a neutral contribution to the significance of the conservation area, the proposed development of the study site will not bring any harm to said significance."

The local authority told Taylor Wimpey at the end of October that the EIA was needed. This is likely to be submitted alongside the full planning application.

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Outline plans show new junctions will be needed on Kenilworth Road and Sandy Lane.

As well as 1,100 houses, the estate would also include a new supermarket, primary school, local centre, allotment, public open space and playing fields.

The site is shortlisted for inclusion in the new South Warwickshire Local Plan, and is referred to as plot 'SG06' in the major planning document.