Decision due over controversial housing plans on outskirts of Hartlepool

Proposals were submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council planning department last year to demolish the existing property at Mayfield House in Dalton Piercy Road, and build five new homes.

The outline application from Euro Property Management Ltd states the development would provide one six bedroom and four new five bedroom homes in Dalton Piercy, each with a double garage and at least two further parking spaces.

The proposals are to go before the council planning committee on Wednesday for a decision to be made, and officers are recommending they are refused by councillors.

It comes after concerns were raised to the housing plans from both Dalton Piercy Parish Council and the Hartlepool Rural Neighbourhood Plan Group, who both ‘strongly object’ to the development.

A report from senior council planning officer Ryan Cowley states the plans would lead to an ‘over intensification of development’ in the area.

He also noted the applicant has not confirmed they would make a financial contribution towards the highway infrastructure improvements in the area.

In his report, Mr Cowley said: “It is considered that the failure of the scheme to provide the requisite contribution towards highway infrastructure improvements would have a detrimental cumulative impact on the local and strategic road network.

“The Council’s Planning Policy section has also commented that to erect five dwellings in the middle of the countryside with no justification, would not ensure rural charm and character is maintained.

“It is considered that the principle of the development in this instance is unacceptable.

“The proposals would have a detrimental impact on the visual amenity of the site and the character and appearance of the surrounding area, and the local and strategic road network.”

A response from Dalton Piercy Parish Council argues the plans could contribute to the loss of the ‘rural gap’ between Hartlepool and surrounding villages, and warns the site is on a ‘blind bend’.

They said: “The application and change of land use is detrimental to the rural landscape and character of the area.

“There are no exceptional circumstances that warrant further development in this area.

“This development would have a negative impact, with increased traffic, on an already struggling rural road. Added pressure at this pinch point is unacceptable.”

However a planning statement from consultants Planning House, on behalf of the applicant, states the proposals would benefit the area.

It said: “The proposed development replaces an existing dwelling with five dwellings of a high quality design, which would make efficient use of previously developed land and would not compromise the rural landscape.

“The dwellings have been designed to ensure there will be no detrimental impacts upon the amenity of the character of the area in general.

“The proposed development represents a much needed addition to the housing supply.”

A decision will be made on the proposals by councillors at the planning committee meeting on Wednesday, March 10, starting at 9.30am, and streamed live via ‘Hartlepool Council meeting videos’ on YouTube.

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