Twelve 'affordable' flats planned opposite much-delayed Tipton metro stop
A council has revealed plans to build flats opposite a new metro station.
The application by SWG Construction and Sandwell Council asks for permission to build a two-storey block with 12 flats on the corner of Horseley Road and Railway Street off the busy Horseley Heath, Tipton.
The proposed housing includes one to four-bed flats and 18 parking spaces.
The under construction and much-delayed Midlands metro extension from Wednesbury to Dudley includes stops at Horseley Road – just opposite the proposed ‘affordable’ housing site.
Housing officers at Sandwell Council said there was a “critical shortage” of three and four-bed flats for families needing more space – which has been reflected in the mix of flats proposed in the application.
The high demand for one-bed flats from those classed with a ‘non-emergency’ need – such as overcrowding – was nearly a year according to the council’s figures with ‘very high’ waits of more than four years for a three-bed flat and nearly nine years for four-bed flats.
A statement included with the application said: “The proposed development supports the National Planning Policy Frame’s (NPPF) promotion of making effective use of land, by providing high-quality, affordable, residential development in a sustainable location in Tipton.
“The proposed apartment building contributes to the council’s requirement to permit applications for affordable housing, to meet the needs of the local community.
“The design and appearance of the proposed development seeks to minimise impact on residential and visual amenity, whilst reflecting the local context and character.
“There are no other technical reasons arising from design, ecology and landscaping, access and highways, drainage, trees, energy or noise that should prevent a positive decision from the council.
“Overall, the information submitted to the local planning authority shows that the proposed development complies with policies at a local and national level and therefore constitutes sustainable development as defined at the heart of the NPPF.”
