Greenspace homes likely to pass
PLANNING chiefs look set to give the go-ahead to 48 houses on designated greenspace on the eastern outskirts of Runcorn.
Bloor Homes has applied to build a mix of three and four-bedroom semi and detached houses on land opposite Stalbridge Drive in Sandymoor.
A Halton Borough Council report said members of the public have made six representations over the scheme, raising concerns over ecological impact, drainage and flooding, traffic increase, road safety and an emergency access on Keckwick Lane, pollution, and railway noise for future householders.
The planning department has recommended the scheme for approval.
The report said building on greenspace is permissible if a developer replaces it with equal or improved greenspace elsewhere or “significantly enhances the amenity value of nearby greenspace”.
It said this will be secured via a Section 106 payment, which will compensate the loss of greenspace by improving other green sites.
The scheme has been exempted from the usual demand for “affordable housing” because of an overarching Sandymoor redevelopment agreement, which although not covering the Stalbridge Drive site up for decision, will be reflected in a fresh deal signed by Bloor Homes.
The reports said: “This is considered to cover all available compensatory measures and planning gain and has been negotiated to secure those benefits that have been prioritised by the council.
“That agreement did not cover affordable housing provision but did include provisions with respect to open space.
“Provision of affordable housing is acknowledged to place a financial burden and it is considered that any additional requirements in this regard would open that legal agreement to full re-negotiation and is likely to affect the viability of the scheme.
“Unlike the majority of the Sandymoor development area this site is not under the ownership of the Homes and Communities Agency and is not subject to the previously agreed legal agreement.
“The applicant has however agreed to sign a legal agreement on the same terms.”
Planning chiefs are due to decide the matter on Monday, August 9.
The Bloor Homes plot lies between Sandymoor, Runcorn, and Daresbury, with the West Coast Main Line running along its eastern perimeter and Keckwick Lane to the north.