PROPOSALS for new housing in Athersley South have been approved - despite being met with fierce objection from locals.
An application by Leeds and Yorkshire Housing Association to build 54 homes, which are intended for rented and shared ownership purposes, on a greenspace plot off Catherine’s Walk was discussed at Barnsley Council’s planning board meeting on Tuesday.
Having been earmarked for approval, members gave the thumbs up to the scheme, despite hearing about 26 letters in objection due to loss of greenspace, increased traffic, overshadowing and loss of privacy.
The planning board’s chairman, Doug Birkinshaw, said: “Yes, we have had 26 objections, and it is a pity we will lose greenspace but on the whole it’s an excellent scheme.
“This housing is for people aged 40 and above and there’s been thought given to its layout. There’s a mixture of building types and I think it’s a good thing.”
The plan includes 32 two-bedroom semi-detached houses, eight three-bedroom semi-detached houses, six two-bedroom semi-detached bungalows, four two-bedroom ground floor apartments and four two-bedroom apartments.
The council’s development manager, Andrew Burton, said: “The proposals are sensitive due to the large number of existing properties located on Wingfield Road and Catherine’s Walk which overlook the site in its existing open form.
“Taking into account the relevant development plan policies and other material considerations, it is considered that the substantial benefits associated with the provision of a large numbers of affordable dwellings in a sustainable and priority location outweighs the limited number of adverse impacts, including loss of greenspace.
“Loss of view is not a material planning consideration. In addition the plans have been designed to meet the separation distances which are required between existing and new dwellings.
“The provision of greenspace is normally required on an developments of 20 or more, however the council does not seek contributions from affordable housing developments due to the viability implications.
“Ten minutes away from the site is the recreation ground at Laithes Lane.
“The development would maintain the required standards of privacy and would not lead to overshadowing to an unacceptable degree.”
The greenspace, which is used by the public and is an ‘important wildlife habitat’ according to the objectors, will be lost because of the scheme, although £110,040 in Section 106 money has been agreed which will go towards boosting education within the area.
Coun Sarah Tattershall added: “It’s a good site and 54 homes will be very welcome, regardless of the objections it’s received. I do feel for those people who have voiced their concerns as they are very upset about it, but this is a big contribution to the St Helens ward’s housing.”
