Townhouses approved for ex-petrol station site in Sunderland
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According to planning documents, the area has been derelict for several years with forecourt buildings remaining on site.
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Hide AdThe proposals included converting the land into a ‘townhouse’ complex with eight four-bedroom homes and 12 parking bays to the rear.
The plans also aimed to demolish all structures on the site to make way for the two storey development.
Following consultation, Sunderland City Council’s planning authority approved the planning application on Friday, May 29.
Although council officers admitted there could be an impact on residents to the rear of the site from one bedroom window, no objections were lodged from neighbours.
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Hide AdA decision report reads: “Officers therefore consider that planning permission should not be refused solely on the basis that the separation distance from one bedroom window does not meet the guidance.
“Especially given that the balance of the proposal accords with the development plan and would contribute towards providing housing on a currently vacant piece of brownfield land located in a sustainable location.”
The report added the site would bring benefits in terms of economic development, meeting housing needs and regenerating a “long-standing vacant site.”
Over the years, several planning applications to convert the site have been rejected – including proposals for car washes and a tyre repair centre.
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Hide AdAlthough an application for apartments on the site was approved more than a decade ago, the scheme failed to materialise.
Under planning conditions, the new townhouse plans must be brought forward within the next three years.
Applicant, The Newcastle Car Wash Limited, is also expected to pay funds to the city council to minimise “recreational impacts” on protected nature sites.
This is part of a section 106 agreement and will be set at a rate of £271 per dwelling, according to council planning papers.