New housing development approved on edge of County Durham town
Durham County Council’s planning committee approved the proposal for 181 new homes on Wednesday
by Bill Edgar · ChronicleLiveA proposal to construct 181 homes on the outskirts of a County Durham town has received approval.
The new residential development is set to be erected on land south of Greylingstadt Terrace at The Middles, Stanley.
The green light was given by Durham County Council’s planning committee on Wednesday (October 2). The location is conveniently surrounded by numerous local amenities including a primary school, shops, a village hall, and a medical centre.
Gleeson Homes, the applicant, plans to build a variety of two, three, and four-bedroom homes in the new estate, with up to 18 of these properties being bungalows. Out of the total 181 homes, 18 have been designated as "affordable".
Chris Dodds, land director at Gleeson Homes, stated that the developer specialises in providing entry-level housing for young people and first-time buyers.
A statement from the company reads: "The proposals aim to deliver quality new homes to local people in addition to providing much-needed new housing in this location. Gleeson has an ethos of providing high-quality, low-cost homes, predominantly targeting first-time buyers and those looking to advance onto the property ladder. We take special care in determining selling prices that are affordable to as much of the local market as possible. Gleeson houses offer significant cost savings to residents through energy bills, which is particularly relevant in these times."
The developer will also allocate funds for improvements to local footpaths, increased capacity at the GP surgery, and new open spaces. Gleeson’s statement concluded by emphasising the importance of community engagement.
As part of the development process, Gleeson promises to engage with local schools and communities, fostering a spirit of collaboration and inspiring future generations.
The company has pledged to contribute positively to the area, stating: "Gleeson is committed to providing ‘Local Jobs for Local People’ and offers priority of employment to those living within 2 miles of each site, ensuring that the benefit of jobs and spending go directly to the local community."
The plans, however, met with resistance, stirring about 20 objections from locals concerned about potential disruptions to the countryside's tranquility and questioning the necessity for more housing.
Councillor Mark Wilkes, cabinet member for neighbourhoods and climate change, called into question the clarity around biodiversity net gains at the proposed site.
Nonetheless, the council’s planning department argued favourably for the project, suggesting the benefits surpass any potential harm and advocating for the proposal's progression.
Backing up the project's importance, Councillor Kevin Shaw explained: "Schemes like this are absolutely essential, if as a council, we are going to meet our future housing need."
In the face of debate, the development proposal received unanimous support from the planning committee.
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