Tower block homes are given go-ahead
PLANS for a 12-storey residential tower block on Gateshead Quayside have been given the green light.
ES Gateshead Ltd has been allowed to construct a residential complex comprising 162 one and two-bedroom apartments split across a building ranging in height from five to 12 storeys.
The application also included a roof terrace, a residents’ hub and cycle parking to encourage more sustainable modes of transport.
The proposals proved not to be controversial, with the council receiving two letters in favour and only one opposing.
The opposing letter expressed concerns that the bulk and materials of the site may damage the views of the Tyne Gorge and could ruin the residential amenity of neighbours already living in the area.
However a council report concluded: “The location, height and scale and orientation of windows within the new development relative to existing neighbouring units is not considered to raise any significant residential amenity issues.
“This is because any overlooking would be mutual and is something to be reasonably expected in an urban core location where high density development sit together.”
Council officers told Gateshead’s planning committee on Wednesday that although the project was largely compliant with regulations, there would be no affordable housing available within the scheme.
The report explained: “In addition, further consideration of the current economic constraints facing new developments linked to inflation, the global political situation, and resultant increases in the cost of raw materials and lead in times, has shown that viability is a key issue with the delivery of this scheme.
“Therefore, on balance, it is considered that the provision of affordable housing or any offsite financial contributions would place the delivery of the scheme into question and hence should not be required in this instance.”
Council officers recommended the tower block plans be approved despite the lack of affordable hous
ing provision.