Sheffield bungalow to be replaced with apartment block described as 'shoe box' by councillors

A number of councillors spoke out against the scheme - calling it a “Lego block” and “shoe box” - but they were overruled by the rest of the board.

The scheme went through with a slim majority despite 57 objections from local residents.

Local councillor Cliff Woodcraft told the planning meeting: “I am concerned about the loss of a bungalow which could be very helpful to older people or those with mobility problems.

“I have concerns about the density and this is a bridge too far. It falls far short of reflecting the character of the area.”

Andrew Tingle, on behalf of the developers, said: “This is not something that’s been done on a whim, we did a pre planning enquiry in 2015 which had a positive response and submitted a full planning application last July.

“It did need tweaking and neighbours’ comments have been taken on board. There is no overlooking, no loss of privacy and landscaping to really soften it.”

Several councillors were critical. Coun Jack Clarkson said: “It’s a shoe box building and looks like a building site with a foreman’s cabin on top.”

Coun Bob McCann added: “It’s a Lego block with no character of shape. The architects could have done better.”

Coun Andrew Sangar said: “We are losing bungalows, either to demolition or extensions, and it’s happening again here. It’s an overdevelopment and out of keeping.”

Coun Roger Davison agreed. “I like the design but it’s in the wrong place. It’s a little cramped and out of character.”

And Coun Peter Price added: “There’s a growing intention to get rid of bungalows because developers look to maximise the site for more income and this is a classic example. This is a nice bungalow.”

They were overruled by the rest of the board and the development was approved.

Vincent Doherty, aged 85, who lives next door to the site is opposed to the plans, and claimed the former tenant – his best friend who has now passed away – would be ‘turning in his grave’ at the thought of the development.