Controversial apartment plans submitted for Sheffield community garden

The apartments and three commercial units are planned for the green plot of land at Cobden View Road in Crookes.

The land has been maintained by Crookes residents for many years with grass and flowers but it was recently sold.

The owner initially prompted a flurry of complaints when he started to fence it off but things escalated and police were called after large trees began to be felled.

The development would be a single building in the middle of the site - two and a half storeys when viewed from Northfield Road and three and a half storey from viewed from Cobden View Road.

It would include four studios, 11 one-bed units and three two-bed units. There would be no off street parking but cycling provision.

JR Planning Consultants say in the application: "The site is not of any beneficial use and has a somewhat cluttered appearance with three large advertising hoardings.

"The proposal would deliver a new high quality building that would provide much needed housing. The commercial element would ensure the site provides employment opportunities and made an important contribution to the local economy."

Local councillors have already spoken out against the development, along with Sheffield Hallam MP Olivia Blake.

She said: "I am deeply concerned by this proposal to build over a plot of land that has been used and cherished as a community garden for a long time.

"The local community has maintained it by planting flowers on the site and encouraging a safe haven for local wildlife.

"Many constituents have informed me they were not told when the site was sold off and I have asked the council to investigate property ownership over the land.

"While there is currently no public right of way recorded, it is possible for rights to become established by usage over time. I would strongly encourage any residents in pursuing this further."

Planning officers are considering the application, which can be viewed here

https://planningapps.sheffield.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=QAY4TBNYIF700

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