13 affordable homes at Meadowfield Way, Newton Aycliffe

What was proposed

The application sought 13 homes, including bungalows and two- and three-bedroom houses, with all units offered as affordable housing.

“The application site comprises an irregular, rectangular shaped parcel of land of approximately 0.52ha, located within the built-up area of Newton Aycliffe. The bulk of the site previously accommodated the Horndale Working Men’s Club, but this has long been demolished. Some hardstanding remains but the majority of the site is populated by overgrow grassland and a series of individual and tree groups.”

“The application seeks full planning permission for the erection of 13no dwellings, in the form of 2no two bed bungalows, 6no. two bed dwellings and 5no three bed dwellings. It is proposed that the scheme will deliver 100% affordable units, to be secured via Section 106 agreement.”

Officer report

Consultation and public views

Highways, drainage, ecology and affordable housing consultees raised no objection, while residents mainly raised concerns about flooding, trees, drainage, privacy, noise and infrastructure.

“Arboricultural Officer (Trees) - Advise that the loss of a relatively small number of existing trees (12no individual trees and one small group) will have a low medium-term impact, given the number of trees now retained. New trees to be planted across the site should be afforded space to grow to maturity.”

“Concern over flooding • Loss of trees • Loss of Green Belt • Impact on existing infrastructure (drainage / sewage) • Loss of privacy • Impact on amenity (noise and vibration) • Impact on property values…”

Officer report

Who spoke

The agent and the applicant spoke in support, highlighting affordable homes, brownfield regeneration, retained trees, energy efficiency and local improvements.

The vote and decision

The committee unanimously approved the application subject to the conditions and Section 106 agreement set out in the report.

“That the application be APPROVED subject to conditions and the Section 106 agreement as detailed in the report.”

Minutes