Three new dwellings at Land At Thursby Walk, Southdene, Knowsley

“This application proposes the erection of three, two storey dwellings with car parking and landscaping. The relevant key issues are:”

“The site fronts onto Broad Lane. There are 7 no. parking bays laid out immediately along the western boundary of the site accessed off Rowlings Way via Broad Lane and another 7 no. parking spaces located at the northern boundary opposite Nos. 2-6 Thursby Walk.”

“The application site comprises a grassed area bounded by Thursby Walk, Broad Lane and Rowlings Way. The site is irregular in shape extending over an area of approximately 730sqm (0.07ha) and is allocated as part of the Primarily Residential Area on the Proposals Map…”

“The development is acceptable in principle and subject to suitable planning conditions would not cause unacceptable harm in relation to loss of urban greenspace; the amenity of neighbouring properties highway safety, the character of the area, crime and anti–social behaviour; biodiversity, flood risk and contaminated land. The delivery of three new homes must carry weight in favour of the proposed development.”

“In conclusion, the proposed development would comply with policies included within the Core Strategy (2016), Knowsley Replacement Unitary Development Plan (saved policies 2006), The Waste Local Plan (2013) and the National Planning Policy Framework (2024).”

“Environmental Health (Knowsley Council) – No objection in principle subject to conditions securing a phase 1 contaminated land assessment; noise mitigation; and construction management plan.”

“Local Highway Authority (Knowsley Council) – No objection in principle subject to conditions securing details of visibility splays for vehicles and pedestrians, provision of cycle storage, construction management plan.”

“Traffic and Highway Safety • Increased traffic and congestion. • Additional traffic could lead to accidents, particularly with cars speeding around corners. • Additional cars would make parking more dangerous. • Congestion will worsen with the removal of parking space and the addition of car owning households. • Existing congestion during peak times, new homes, additional cars and increased commercial activity would compound issue.”

“Anti –Social Behaviour • Would result in anti-social behaviour / gangs congregating • Reducing green space will worsen anti-social behaviour. • Higher density likely to result disturbance, • Impacts due to enclosed and secluded areas created by boundary. • Increased loitering • Poor natural surveillance. • Reduced security of vehicles. • Layout creates alleyway-style gaps and hidden areas between.”

“The Committee considered the report of the Executive Director (Place) on the above application for planning permission.”

“RESOLVED – That the application be granted subject to the conditions set out in the attached schedule, or such additional or amended conditions that the Head of Planning & Building Control in consultation with the Chair of Planning Committee considers appropriate.”