Agenda item

Demolition of the existing building and erection of 14no dwellings.

The Team Leader - Central and East 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. 

It was noted the application was for 14 dwellings and was recommended for approval, subject to conditions and s106 Legal Agreements.

The Team Leader - Central and East explained that the site was a former Durham County Council Adult Services building and was within the settlement boundary, with a number of residential developments in the area and more planned for the future.

The Committee were referred to elevations for the proposed house types and noted the single point of access to the site was approved as being to the required standards.  It was noted that as the access was steep there was a condition for a handrail to aid access on foot.  It was added that the site was considered sustainable, with access to the Town Centre, shops, schools and other facilities. 

It was reiterated that there were no objections from the Highways Section and that the Tree Officer was happy with trees to be retained and protected by condition.  Members noted no objections from the Ecology Officers given the mitigation in terms of EU protected sites on the coast, as set out in a s106 agreement.

The Team Leader - Central and East noted it had been noted that the scheme had been determined as being unviable should contributions towards play equipment have been greater than the old Easington District tariff of £500 per dwelling.  It was added there had been no objections from neighbouring properties or the Parish and Town Councils.

The Chairman noted no registered speakers and therefore asked Members of the Committee for their comments and questions on the application.

Councillor J Clark asked whether the other building was still in use by the Council/Pathways and sharing the access.  The Team Leader - Central and East noted he thought it was still in use.  Councillor J Clark noted that there was a footpath access to the site and asked if that was to be retained.  The Team Leader - Central and East noted he could check as regards this matter.  Councillor J Clark noted that if this was the case then it would be an additional pedestrian access and she noted, having previously worked at the site, that the number of cars associated with the proposed development would be less than when the building was in operation.

Councillor J Clark proposed that the application be approved; she was seconded by Councillor O Temple.

RESOLVED

That the application be APPROVED subject to the completion of a Section 106 Legal Agreement and the conditions as detailed in the Officer’s report to the Committee.