The Area Planning Committee (Central and East) of County Durham Council met on Tuesday 11 June 2024 to discuss several significant planning applications. Decisions were made on various proposals, including the approval of a new children's home and the development of bungalows on derelict land.

Children's Home at Anvil, Abbey Road, Pity Me

The committee approved the change of use from a dwelling to a children's home at Anvil, Abbey Road, Pity Me. The home will accommodate up to three children aged 8-17 and includes the retention of a sensory room and an office within the rear garden. The application was part retrospective, with the outbuildings already constructed. The decision was made despite concerns from local residents and Councillor Mark Wilkes regarding parking, traffic, and the retrospective nature of the application. The committee imposed conditions to ensure the office is used solely for the children's home and required a robust management plan and a travel plan to address parking and staffing issues.

Bungalows at Rock Terrace, New Brancepeth

The committee approved the erection of 11 bungalows on land to the rear of Rock Terrace, New Brancepeth. The land had previously been used as garden land and had issues with fly-tipping. The development, supported by Places for People, will provide much-needed affordable housing and help release family homes elsewhere. The decision was welcomed by local residents and Councillor Maura Wilson, who highlighted the benefits of redeveloping the derelict land.

Other Applications

131 Grange Way, Bowburn

The committee approved the temporary change of use of a property at 131 Grange Way, Bowburn, from a C3 residential dwelling to a C2 children's home for up to three years. The home will accommodate up to two children aged 3-17. The decision was made despite concerns from local residents and Councillor Jan Blakey regarding anti-social behaviour and parking issues. The committee imposed conditions to ensure the home operates within the guidelines and addresses residents' concerns.

31 Bradford Crescent, Gilesgate

The committee approved the change of use from a dwellinghouse to a house in multiple occupation (HMO) at 31 Bradford Crescent, Gilesgate. The application included a single-storey rear extension, cycle parking, and bin storage. The decision was made despite objections from local residents and Councillors Eric Mavin, Lesley Mavin, and Charlie Fletcher regarding the overconcentration of HMOs and parking issues. The committee noted that the application met the requirements of the County Durham Plan and the Residential Amenity Standards SPD.

Land North of Bow View, Ushaw Moor

The committee approved the erection of five dwellings on land north of Bow View, Ushaw Moor. The development includes associated site access and ancillary facilities. The decision was made despite concerns from local residents and Parish Councillor Jimmy Jamieson regarding flooding, parking, and the impact on wildlife. The committee imposed conditions to address these concerns and ensure the development complies with planning policies.

How Do You Do, York Road, Peterlee

The committee approved the change of use from a dwellinghouse to a house in multiple occupation (HMO) at How Do You Do, York Road, Peterlee. The application included a single-storey rear extension, cycle parking, and bin storage. The decision was made despite objections from local residents and Councillors Lynne Fenwick and Sue McDonnell regarding noise, light pollution, and parking issues. The committee imposed conditions to mitigate the impact on residents and ensure the development complies with planning policies.

For more details, you can refer to the minutes of the meeting and the public reports pack.