Dudley flats plan rejected on former scout hut site
The proposal was rejected on the grounds of density and scale creating ‘a cramped, contrived and overly intensive form of development’.
Plans for flats on the site of a former scout hut have been thrown out by Dudley Council.
The application for four two-bedroom apartments and two one-bedroom apartments was for land on Douglas Road in Dudley.
Developers wanted to build a two-storey block with eight parking spaces on a triangular-shaped plot which had been vacant for several years.
The design of the proposed building resulted in a higher density of dwellings per hectare than surrounding development.
A statement in support of the application from Arctek Ltd said: “The scheme provides high-quality internal accommodation that meets national space standards, alongside meaningful external amenity space and appropriate parking provision.
“The layout makes efficient use of a sustainably located brownfield site, contributing to local housing supply without compromising the character or function of the area.
“Overall, the development demonstrates that a moderate increase in density can be successfully achieved through a sensitive and context-led design approach.”
Dudley Council planning officers found, while the applicant sought to justify the higher density, there were concerns the building would not fit in with surrounding structures.
In a report on the application, officers said: “In this case, the proposed density would result in a form of development that would be contrary to the established pattern and introduces a level of intensity not reflective of the locality.
“The proposal fails to provide sufficient distances between the existing and proposed buildings to prevent overlooking of the existing residential properties and to prevent an overbearing and oppressive relationship to the existing neighbour to protect outlook to this property.”
The proposal was rejected on the grounds of density and scale creating ‘a cramped, contrived and overly intensive form of development’.
Planners also said the applicant had failed to submit sufficient information on parking provision and safe and suitable access to the site.
The site is also in a high-risk coal mining area and no Coal Mining Risk Assessment was submitted with the application.
The applicants also failed to submit information on how existing habitats would be retained, enhanced or replaced or meet statutory requirements for biodiversity improvements.
You can find out more about planning applications and planned roadworks where you live by visiting publicnoticeportal.uk/express-and-star
Comment Guidelines
Iconic Media encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.