Resubmitted plans for a rejected housing development have been lodged – but residents have raised public health concerns, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
Local developer Project Genesis has updated its proposal for 71 homes in Consett after Durham County Council refused a previous application in 2024.
The planning committee voted against the original proposals on the grounds that it would exacerbate issues with the local road network and safety.
One resident, whose home borders the proposed site, also questioned whether she would be safe in her back garden due to the “toxic” land.
A total of 116 objections to the proposal were sent to the council. Opponents said the land is frequented by dog walkers and would be a loss to the community. Durham County Council’s planning department added that the site was not in a sustainable location for development.
The local development firm submitted an appeal to the government’s planning inspectorate following the initial rejection, and a planning inquiry was due to take place, but was later scrapped.
An altered version of the scheme has now been submitted to the local authority for approval in the hope of reviving the development. The proposal includes a mix of two, three and four-bed bungalows for land north west of Duchy Close, Consett.
Project Genesis said the proposed development is intended to complete the sixth and final phase of the Regents Park development, delivering the planned 480 homes at the site.
An updated planning statement reads: “The delivery of 71 dwellings (which includes an 18 per cent provision of bungalows and 10 per cent affordable housing) would form an important contribution to the local housing supply and deliver much-needed market and affordable housing within Consett.
“The proposed development will have no adverse impact that would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits of the development. The redevelopment of this part of the former steelworks site would contribute to meeting an identified market and affordable housing need within Consett.”
But among the early objectors to the latest proposal is local county councillor, Jackie Teasdale.
She said: “With the discussions we have had and listening to our residents, I am also concerned about the contaminated land.
“Without a comprehensive and transparent investigation, there is a risk to public health and long-term safety.
“It is essential that any contamination is properly assessed and managed with appropriate safeguards in place. The likely increase of construction activity raises valid concerns about noise, dust, and pollution.
“These factors could have a detrimental effect on the quality of life for nearby residents. Given these issues, I would like to confirm that I strongly support the residents in objecting to this planning request.”
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
