18-suite co-living development at 4-6 Crozier Street & 97-101 Newcastle Road, Sunderland

What was proposed

The application proposed converting retail and residential space into 18 managed co-living studio suites, with extensions, a pavilion and external works.

“26/00501/FUL – Conversion from ground floor retail and first floor residential to Sui Generis managed residential (co- living) development comprising 18 studio suites, including loft conversion, infill extension, new detached ancillary garden pavilion room and associated external works including the introduction of a canopy over the main entrance. 4 and 6 Crozier Street & 97-101 Newcastle Road, Sunderland, SR5 1JF”

Minutes

Who spoke

Councillor Leadbitter spoke against the application on behalf of ward colleagues and local residents.

Concerns raised

Concerns included parking pressure, servicing, intensive use, accommodation quality, limited amenity space, poor outlook, privacy and local character.

“Councillor Leadbitter advised that he was speaking against the application on behalf of his ward colleagues and also local residents. This was a significant application, for 18 residential units on a constrained site. There was already high demand for parking in the area and this development would create a significant intensification of demand for parking in the area given that there was no in curtilage parking.”

“There were also concerns over the intensity of the use of the building and the quality of accommodation that would be offered. The lack of amenity space and lack of outlook from windows serving a number of the rooms would negatively impact on the proposed occupants and was contrary to the Council’s policies. There would also be a loss of privacy for existing neighbouring residents.”

Minutes

The committee vote

With all members in agreement, the committee supported the refusal recommendation.

“There being no questions or comments from Members the Chairperson put the recommendation to the Committee and with all Members being in agreement it was:-”

Minutes

The decision

Planning permission was refused for the reasons set out in the report.

“RESOLVED that Members REFUSE planning permission for the reasons set out in the report.”

Minutes