A proposal for new bungalows has been rejected amid fears residents would not be able to open windows due to noise from a nearby industrial site.
The application for the 15-home scheme at the Eclipse Development Site, Crook, failed to convince councillors at a meeting on Thursday (December 14).
It was labelled “ambitious” by planning committee members and criticised for its lack of information and detail.
Applicant Julie Baines told a meeting: “We see this is an opportunity to provide more bungalows in the area, where there is a shortage.”
Mrs Baines said noise reports were carried out and the site was designed to be screened from any excess noise levels from nearby facilities. “Every aspect of the design has been carefully considered throughout the process to ensure that noise is minimised and any residual impacts would be negligible.”
But Durham County Council’s planning officers warned that residents would not be able to open windows due to its proximity to the neighbouring industrial unit.
Senior Planning officer, Gemma Heron, said: “While we do recognise the benefits of bringing the bungalows to the area, the scheme represents poor conditions for future occupiers due to the unacceptable noise levels generated from the adjacent employment use.”
The meeting also heard from ward councillor Anne Reed, who said she could not support the plans. She added: “
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Cllr Eddy Adam said: “It’s an area that clearly needs housing, but the application is somewhat confusing for me. On the noise issue, to have bungalows in such an area would be inappropriate because of the noise levels residents would experience.”
And Cllr Shirley Quinn added: “This is a very ambitious planning application, and I don’t think we are in any position to recommend approval.”
Committee members unanimously voted to refuse the proposal.
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