The expansion of a Spennymoor housing estate, which was expected to approved by councillors, has been refused, throwing the plans into disarray. Applicant Barratt Homes proposed expanding its Whitworth Park estate in the County Durham town by building a further 299 homes, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
The site is located directly to the north of the recently constructed housing development, also known as Burton Woods, at the northwestern edge of Spennymoor.
The proposal detailed plans for 56 two-bedroom bungalows; 22 two-bedroom houses; 126 three-bedroom houses; and 95 four-bedroom houses.
Up to 155 of the homes would be occupied on an affordable basis and managed by Livin Homes, according to the applicant, alongside 30 affordable home ownership units and 15 affordable rental units.
The proposal had been recommended for approval ahead of a Durham County Council planning committee on Wednesday (March 5).
A statement from the applicant reads: “Barratt David Wilson Homes North East (BDW) have a long history of delivering high quality housing in Spennymoor.
“The scheme is the next phase of BDW’s Burton Woods development. The northward expansion of the existing community presents a logical and sustainable extension, providing the opportunity for further family housing and significant open space.
“We recognise the importance of the right to a home for everyone and the proposals will go a long way towards addressing the high demand for housing in Spennymoor and this part of County Durham.
“One of the key benefits of the site is the sustainability of its location and its connectivity to Spennymoor. This will have tangible economic benefits as well as providing extensive open space, play areas and fitness opportunities for the community.”
However, 55 objections were submitted, raising concerns over the capacity of local schools, GP surgeries, local dentists, local leisure facilities, the fire service and the police force.
Objectors also said the distances that some residents would need to drag their bins to the nearest adopted highway for collection would be too great.
Spennymoor Town Council objected to the application, advising that if approved, it would have a serious detrimental impact on surrounding green spaces; cause an increase in traffic, which would have a detrimental impact on local facilities; and that there is a lack of infrastructure in the town to support the application.
Cllrs Liz Maddison and Pete Molloy also attended the meeting to raise their objections.
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
Spennymoor's local community newspaper.
