Agenda item

Subdivision and refurbishment of the former NESS factory to create units for B1, B2 and B8 uses.

The Senior Planning Officer, Barry Gavillet gave a detailed presentation on the report relating to the abovementioned planning application, a copy of which had been circulated (for copy see file of minutes).  Members noted that the written report was supplemented by a visual presentation which included photographs of the site.

The application was for subdivision and refurbishment of the former NESS factory to create units for B1, B2 and B8 uses and was recommended for approval subject to conditions. 

The Senior Planning Officer referred Members to elevations, photographs, plans and aerial photographs and explained that the area comprised of several vacant buildings and service yards. 

It was added that closest property was approximately 30m from the site and there had been no statutory responses, and no objections from Environmental Health or Highways, subject to conditions in terms of noise, restriction of times of operation and parking levels.  Member noted no objections had been received from local residents.

The Senior Planning Officer noted that the principle of use at the site had been well established, with buildings being there for over 60 years and refurbishment of the units would enhance the area and create job opportunities and therefore the application was recommended for approval.

The Chairman noted there were no registered speakers for this item and asked Members of the committee for their comments.

Councillor B Moir asked if the applicant was Knight Frank or Frank Knight.  The Senior Planning Officer noted that the agent for the applicant was Knight Frank.

Councillor B Moir noted he knew the area well and was happy for this use to be taken forward to provide industrial use and job opportunities for those in County Durham and therefore proposed that the application be approved.  Councillor A Laing noted she wholeheartedly seconded the application.

Councillor C Kay noted he lamented the loss of manufacturing in the County; however he was supportive of creating new opportunities and happy to have vacant units brought back into use.  Councillor A Laing asked if it was known how long the units had been vacant.  Councillor M Davinson noted it was stated since 2015.

Councillor B Moir moved that the application be approved; he was seconded by Councillor A Laing.

RESOLVED

That the application be APPROVED subject to the conditions set out in the report.