Demolition of two homes at 47 - 49 The Geerings, Corringham

What was proposed

The application sought prior approval to demolish two semi-detached dwellings using controlled mechanical methods and leave the site safe and level.

“The application seeks Prior Approval for the demolition of the 2 no. semi- detached dwellings at 47 and 49 The Geerings. The site is owned by Thurrock Council and the application has been submitted due to the excessive costs of maintenance and repair for the building.”

“The demolition will be undertaken using mechanical methods, with appropriate environmental management measures in place to address dust, noise, vibration, and waste. The works are expected to be carried out in a phased and controlled manner to minimise disruption to surrounding occupiers. Access to the site will be managed to avoid impacts on the local highway network.”

Officer report

The site

The site contains two two-storey dwellings with gardens on a corner in an established residential street of similar properties.

“The application site comprises the pair of semi-detached dwellings on the corner of Springhouse Road and Giffords Cross Road in Corringham. The surrounding street scene is characterised by similar two storey properties.”

“The dwellings are typical two storey dwellings of their era with front and rear gardens.”

Officer report

Site history

The dwellings received consent in the 1950s, and no other relevant site history was identified.

“None – The dwellings were given consent in the 1950s.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

The Highway Authority and Environmental Health raised no objections, although both offered advice about demolition and traffic arrangements.

“No objection is raised, some further suggestions are made about detail this could be covered by a Note on any decision…”

“No objection is raised but advice is offered on additional information that could be submitted.”

Officer report

Public representations

The application was advertised to neighbours and by site notice, but no comments were received.

“This application has been advertised by way of individual neighbour notification and the applicant has displayed a site notice displayed nearby; no comments were received.”

Officer report

Who spoke

A ward councillor gave a statement in objection to the application.

Members’ debate

Members asked about the demolition timetable, traffic controls and rubble removal, and considered the buildings beyond repair but wanted safe working.

“The Co-Optee queried how long it will take in the demolition plan. It was confirmed there is nothing in the demolition plan that set out a specific amount of time, however it is two relatively small properties, so it won’t take too much time and be a short process.”

“Members acknowledged the area and noted that it appeared beyond repair adding that the demolition be done in a safe manner.”

Minutes

The vote

Six members voted for the recommendation, none voted against, and one member abstained.

“Recommendation That the Chief Planning Officer be authorised to issue a decision to show that PRIOR APPROVAL IS GRANTED for the demolition.”

“For (6): Councillors, Fletcher, Sisterson, Cherry, Jones, Kelly, Liddiard Against (0): Abstain (1): Councillor Cecil…”

Minutes

Approval requirements

The demolition must follow the submitted details and take place within five years, with advice on dust, noise, routes and highway works.

“The demolition shall be carried out in accordance with the details as submitted.”

“The demolition being carried out within a period of 5 years from the date on which the Local Planning Authority received the details.”

Officer report