52-home development at Hart reservoir gets go-ahead after change in conditions agreed

Proposals to build the homes at the Hart Reservoir site in Hartlepool were approved, subject to conditions, by the council planning committee in February last year, despite objections.

However they went before the council planning committee again on Wednesday (September 2) following changes to the details of the approved scheme.

This is due to the applicant, Hartlepool-based property developer Brett Wilkinson, wanting to reduce the previously agreed ‘alternative natural green spaces’ and omit a large area of land to be secured by the plans.

However following talks with the council’s ecologist it was agreed planning obligations could instead be put in place to secure financial contributions of £100 per property to address the shortfall.

Councillors on the committee approved the plans, agreeing with the council officer recommendation to do so, with just one, Cllr James Brewer, objecting to the development.

The development includes the disused reservoir being used to create a natural body of water and public space, with car parking, affordable housing and road maintenance also part of the proposals.

Conditions for the approval include the developer contributing £153,780 towards primary education, £51,119 for secondary education, £13,000 for sports provision and up to £18,000 for renewable energy infrastructure as part of the plans.

They also state the developer will help provide and implement a scheme of ‘ecological mitigation measures’ including a £5,200 contribution towards Hartlepool’s housing revenue account.

A design and access statement previously submitted on behalf of the applicant claimed the area would benefit from the development.

It said: “The proposal would contribute towards the housing needs of the borough. It is a location where people wish to live.

“The site is well located with suitable public transport connections and nearby amenities within walking distance. It would enhance the value of the adjoining public open spaces.”

In total 23 objections had been submitted by residents, with concerns also raised by Hart Parish Council and Hartlepool Civic Society.

Concerns included road and traffic worries, loss of views, noise disturbance and claims it would lead to an ‘overload’ of similar properties, however no objectors spoke at the committee meeting.

The plans had first gone before councillors in 2016, when they were approved, but after a number of changes to planning policy locally and nationally, were called before the planning committee again last year.

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