Plans to build two new houses in a County Durham village have been withdrawn after widespread objections from residents.
The proposal, put forward by Mr and Mrs Dyer, sought to demolish an existing garage and construct two three-bedroom homes at Burnbrae, Leazes Villas, Burnopfield.
The site currently serves as a garden area associated with the Burnbrae property. The application highlighted the use of traditional materials, such as local stone and Welsh slate, to maintain the area’s character.
However, local residents raised multiple concerns.
Frances Byron of Ratho Villa flagged issues over biodiversity, noise pollution, and the impact on mental health due to construction noise.
She also raised concerns about parking congestion and highway safety.
May Wilks of Bon Accord echoed these sentiments, citing the potential loss of privacy, parking challenges, increased traffic, and noise disruptions.
Brian and Catherine Lambert of St Leonards warned of construction disruption, insufficient parking, risk of damage to local lanes, and the impact on the character of the conservation area.
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They also noted that the proposed development would significantly reduce Burnbrae’s garden, a key feature of the conservation area.
Sam Kelly of Farndale House expressed concerns about congestion during and after construction, and the increased risk of pollution affecting a young child, and agreed with other residents’ objections on conservation and overcrowding.
Councillors Veronica Andrews and Declan Mulholland supported the residents’ objections.
Cllr Andrews cited issues of limited parking and congestion, while Cllr Mulholland highlighted risks of overcrowding, privacy concerns, potential traffic, and historical coal mining issues indicating ground instability.
The objections led to the withdrawal of the application on Thursday.
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