Plans to demolish former Sheffield community centre for new flats

Issrar Asif submitted proposals to knock down Starkholme Buildings, at 3 Leyburn Road, to make way for a couple of two storey buildings that would house five one bedroom flats.

If approved by Sheffield Council, the car-free development would also have private amenity space, cycling parking and bin storage.

In a statement with the plans, DLP Planning, on behalf of Mr Asif, said the current buildings were in a poor state of repair and becoming an eyesore and that they were attracting anti-social behaviour.

It added the site was a good spot for the new homes as it was a highly sustainable location, lying close to shops, public transport, open space, places of worship, pubs, restaurants, takeaways and schools.

Historically, the buildings were used as a workshop with ancillary office space but that ceased and the most recent use was as a fitness gym and community centre.

Plans were amended following a planning officer report that highlighted five reasons for refusal on earlier proposals.

DLP Planning said all of these had now been addressed.

It added: “It is considered the proposal affords significant planning merit and the level of development now proposed complies with the advice provided by planning officers at both formal pre-application submissions and with that associated with the previous outline planning application for the site.”

But there are two comments from members of the public so far, both of whom live on Leyburn Road and objected.

They raised concerns about light being blocked, privacy, overcrowding, parking, traffic and access.

One said: “The new building is directly overlooking my property and would block off light entering my home.

“I have four children, the new build would take away my privacy as residents would be able to see into my garden and windows.

“There is a major car parking issue on Leyburn road, as a resident, I have witnessed many fights and arguments around parking. It’s very overcrowded and can not accommodate any more cars.”

To read the plans in full or comment, go to https://planningapps.sheffield.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=QPIA75NYJ5100