Fresh debate over plans for 52 homes in Hartlepool at disused Hart Reservoir site

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 when finalising the developer contributions for the scheme the applicant, Hartlepool-based property developer Brett Wilkinson, wanted to reduce the previously agreed ‘alternative natural green spaces’ included as part of the site.

He wanted to omit a ‘substantial area of land’ previously intended to be secured from the agreement, and provide financial compensation instead, and following consultation the plans are therefore due back before councillors.

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

The development is again recommended for approval by council planning officers ahead of the committee meeting on Wednesday, despite the 23 objections submitted to the plans.

A report from senior planning officer Laura Chambers ruled while some concerns were raised by the council planning policy department, the plans are acceptable and would be sustainable.

She said: "The proposed development would, overall, positively benefit each of the threads of economic, social and environmental sustainability and on balance the scheme would deliver sustainable development.

"It is considered that there are material benefits arising from the proposed development and that there are no adverse impacts that would significantly or demonstrably outweigh these benefits.

"It is considered that, on balance, the application represents a sustainable form of development and therefore officer recommendation is to approve."

The report also states the developer would contribute £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.

It also states the developer should help provide and implement a scheme of 'ecological mitigation measures' including a £5,200 contribution towards Hartlepool's housing revenue account.

The application was first submitted in September 2015 looking to build up to 70 homes but was later revised to 52 homes after issues such as housing density were raised by an assessment of the application.

The plans will also include affordable housing provision and a deal to ensure the maintenance of roads, open space and the landscape around the reservoir site.

A design and access statement 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."

Concerns had been raised when the plans were initially submitted over fears about the over-development of the area.

The worries had come in from the likes of Hart Parish Council, Hartlepool Civic Society and then-ward councillor Paul Beck.

A letter from the parish council read: “This proposal, while having a separate outlet from the adjoining estate, is simply an add-on to a sprawling collection of dwellings.

“The designs are no different to those found everywhere in each new opportunity for unnecessary developments.

“The area is overloaded with similar residential properties that are difficult to sell.”

A decision will be made on the proposals at the planning committee meeting on Wednesday, September 2, at 9.30am.