72 affordable homes at Land To The South Of Rosary Road, Oldham

What was proposed

The application sought up to 72 affordable homes, with access, highways works, parking, landscaping and public open space.

“The proposed development seeks full planning permission for the erection of up to 72 affordable houses together with associated works, including new access arrangements, highways infrastructure, landscaping, and areas of public open space. Each dwelling benefits from a secure private garden and in-curtilage parking.”

“In terms of housing mix, the scheme proposes a mix of 2 and 3 bed properties as follows:”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The approximately 2.5-hectare site was largely undeveloped green space beside housing, woodland, open land and a public footpath.

“The site extends to approximately 2.5 hectares and is located approximately 2km south-east of Oldham town centre, on the outer urban fringe of Fitton Hill. The site boundary comprises an area of largely undeveloped semi-improved green space.”

“The site is bounded to the north and west by established residential development, which primarily consists of one and two-storey detached and semi-detached family housing. To the east lies land formerly associated with the school grounds (currently being developed for residential), while to the south the site adjoins further areas of open green space and wooded vegetation belts along parts of its eastern and southern boundaries.”

Officer report

Earlier planning decisions

Earlier permissions covered utility infrastructure and access works, followed by approval for up to 365 homes across adjoining parcels.

“PA/341663/18 - Temporary access road, turning head, fenced compound with kiosk and 2 no. pressure relief columns in association with an underground shaft. Granted – 27.07.2018”

“FUL/347540/21 - The erection of up to 365 dwellings across Parcel A and Parcel B; together with other associated works including the laying out of road and footways, car parking, other infrastructure, public open space, footpaths and landscaping. Granted 07.04.2022”

Officer report

What residents said

Six representations raised concerns about traffic, infrastructure, loss of green space, wildlife, privacy, flooding, construction and neighbourhood character.

“Objections to the loss of one of the last open green fields in the area. • Land provides natural drainage, ecological buffer, and contributes to local air quality. • Wildlife frequently reported on site, including deer, foxes, badgers, hedgehogs, bats, and a variety of bird species. • Objections to loss of dog walking routes, informal recreation space, and landscape character.”

“Residents object to being overlooked by new houses and loss of privacy. • Development considered out of keeping with the low-density character of the existing neighbourhood. • Loss of views, tranquillity, and green outlooks highly valued by residents. • Noise, dust and disruption during construction identified as a concern. • Anticipated negative effects on mental wellbeing and sense of place.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The applicant attended the meeting and addressed the committee.

The committee vote

Councillor Charters moved approval, Councillor S Hussain seconded it, and the vote was unanimously in favour.

“It was MOVED by Councillor Charters and SECONDED by Councillor S Hussain that the application be APPROVED.”

“On being put to the vote, it was UNANIMOUSLY cast IN FAVOUR OF APPROVAL.”

Minutes

The decision

The application was granted subject to completing a section 106 agreement for off-site open space and complying with the stated conditions.

“DECISION: That the application be GRANTED subject to the prior completion of a section 106 agreement relating to off site open space provision and subject to the conditions as outlined in the report and in the Late List and the Assistant Director for Planning, Transport and Housing Delivery be authorised to issue the decision.”

Minutes