Go-ahead given for prison garden homes plan

Hambleton District Council's development control committee granted outline planning consent to HM Prison Service to turn its former prison garden into an estate of up to 80 houses.

Planning officer Mr Morris Cann said that although it was a greenfield development, officers were recommending the scheme for approval because about half of the properties were earmarked for much-needed affordable housing.

A report from Broadacres Housing Association, which will build and run them, stated that about 200 affordable properties were needed to meet the current level of demand in Northallerton.

The 6.3-acre prison garden, between Valley Road, Knotto Bottom Lane and Cotcliffe Avenue, is partly leased by Herbs Unlimited, a specialist herb and mushroom business. The firm, which employs ten people, has leased the land until 2004 and objected to the scheme.

Another 15 residents also submitted written objections to the plans, including worries about increased traffic levels on the Valley Road cul-de-sac to access the new development.

They also fear parking facilities will be disrupted, as plans to widen the cul-de-sac will prevent on-street parking. A number of private garages rented by residents will also be lost.

Planning officers argued that replacement parking could be found. Mr Cann also noted that the prison service would make a new T-junction with Valley Road to help cope with the extra traffic.

The developers have also agreed to pay a commuted sum of £48,000 towards play facilities for the area and a £30,000 contribution to education.

Northallerton Town Council made no comments about the development. Coun John Coulson branded the response "absolutely appalling". He also hit out at the town council for refusing to be responsible for a play area for the estate

"If the council is not willing to take the play area on board we must find someone else," he said.

The committee granted outline planning permission.