Agenda item

14 Dwellings.

The Team Leader - Central and East, Alan Dobie 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 14 dwellings and was recommended for approval, subject to conditions and the completion of a s106 legal agreement, as set out within the report.

The Team Leader - Central and East noted the application site was in what was fundamentally a residential area, occupying a prominent site.  It was noted that there had been a number of problems with the site in the last few years, and as there was an ongoing process in terms of demolition the proposal was welcome. 

The Committee were informed that the proposals were in keeping with the area, a two and a half storey design with three blocks of four and one block of two.  The Team Leader - Central and East noted that access would be via the northern boundary of the site and this access would be also for adjacent properties to serve existing garages and was welcomed by residents.  Members noted the proposed elevations and the enhanced frontage at this prominent site.

The Team Leader - Central and East explained that there were no objections from highways or ecology, with a contribution toward the scheme to reduce the number of access points to special protection areas at the Durham Heritage Coast.  Members noted that there had been no objections from the Drainage Team, subject to surface and foul water conditions.  It was added that there had been no objections from neighbours and in terms of the principle of the development, it was in a sustainable location, within a well-established existing village.  The Team Leader - Central and East concluded by noting the application was recommended for approval.

The Chairman noted that there were no speakers in relation to the application and asked Members of the Committee for their comments and questions.

Councillor J Clark noted it was an excellent development and that it was also welcomed, especially in terms of the work that had been done in respect of the access and proposed that the application be approved.  Councillor M Davinson noted he had drove past the site previously and it was an eyesore and therefore he supported the development and seconded the application.

Councillor J Clark proposed that the application be approved; she was seconded by Councillor M Davinson. 

RESOLVED

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