FAMILIES WIN FIGHT TO SAVE ‘TELETUBBY HILLS’

Plans to build nine homes on private green space refused

RESIDENTS have won their battle to stop nine homes being built on a parcel of land in the city known as Teletubby Hills.

The site to the north of Forrister Street, Meir Hay, is next to public open space owned by Stoke-ontrent City Counci.

But the the green open space bordering the council land was found to be in private ownership after the plans came forward.

More than 140 people objected, saying the site had been used by dog walkers, children and other residents for many years.

Now members of the planning committee have agreed that the development and loss of open space would have significant detrimental impact on the community.

Meir Hay ward councillor Craig Beardmore said: “The land is in the centre of our community, in the middle of a residential estate.

“It is unenclosed and undeveloped, but maintained by the local authority as if it is public open space, giving confidence to residents it had always been in place for their use.

“The owners of the land have shown no interest in it for over 30 years. It is well-used open space and to take it away now would be an absolute disgrace.”

Wife and fellow councillor Lorraine Beardmore said: “We are in an area that suffers from obesity and lack of funds being available to access paid activities and sporting activities.”

The committee was told that ownership of the land was not a planning consideration – and the landowner was able to restrict access, providing a public right of way was kept open.

Caroline Payne, an agent who spoke in support of the application, said: “There is a recognised surplus of open space in the city and this would reduce the supply of green space by 0.4 per cent.

“There are a number within walking distance of the site, and the remaining 75 per cent of open space (the council-owned section next to the land) would be enhanced through Section 106 funding.

“There are no objections from statutory consultees.”

Planning officers had recommended the application for approval.

Councillor David Evans said: “We are being pushed into a decision based on national legislation which isn’t in the best interest of the residents we serve. I have concerns that if we were to grant this application we would set a precedent.”