171-space multistorey car park at TMBC Car Park, Waterloo Road, Stalybridge

What was proposed

The application proposed clearing the existing site and building a four-level, 171-space multistorey car park with landscaping and a clinic drop-off area.

“The application site comprises of the redevelopment of existing Waterloo Road surface level 69 space car park which is owned and managed by the Council. The site is located within the northern area of the Stalybridge town centre and Conservation Area boundary. The site boundary is irregular in shape and covers an area of approximately 0.4 hectares.”

“This is a full application that seeks permission for the redevelopment of the site to support a modern 171 space multi storey car park (MSCP). The Council will retain ownership of the car park but its management will be secured via a specialist operator. It is envisaged that the parking charges will be consistent with TMBC standards.”

Officer report

Consultees’ views

Technical consultees raised no objections overall, while recommending conditions covering contamination, construction, archaeology, biodiversity, highways, drainage, trees and security.

“Environmental Health – No objections recommend conditions controlling construction hours and for the implementation of a dust/odour management strategy.”

“Highways – No objections subject to conditions. The LHA comment that they are satisfied that the proposed access/egress from the development is satisfactory and meets requirements for max gradients and visibility splays standards. Satisfied that the development will attract linked trips to visitors to the town centre. No concerns raised on capacity of safety.”

Officer report

What people said

Fifty representations raised concerns including the location, design, privacy, safety, traffic, parking, trees, construction disruption, air quality and impacts on clinic users.

“The location is not appropriate it is too far from shopping areas • Money should be spent on the high street not on parking • The poor design will result in a substandard dangerous facility • Lack of a daylight/sunlight assessment to review the impact upon King Street properties • Overlooking to residential properties • Not meeting net zero standards • Non-compliance with recognised industry guidance (ramp width and internal access geometry) • Lack of a fire strategy •…”

“Safeguarding concerns about vulnerable users of the health clinic, the car park will adversely impact upon mental health especially those with suicidal thoughts • Increase in vehicle movements and concerns about safety • Conflicts between users of the health service and the car park • Concerns that the lifts will be prone to breaking down and ASB • Development conflicts with equality and accessibility principles it inherently creates more obstacles for disabled people •…”

Officer report

Who spoke

A speaker addressed the Panel in support of the application.

The committee decision

The Panel resolved to grant planning permission subject to conditions and a section 106 agreement securing mandatory off-site biodiversity net gain.

“Decision RESOLVED – That planning permission be granted subject to conditions and section 106 agreement securing mandatory off-site BNG.”

Minutes