New homes plan set to get backing

Conditional planning permission is expected to be granted for the development of new houses and bungalows on the Newstead estate, close to Birley Moor Avenue.

The development will be the first in the area following an agreement to demolish over 800 houses in the Scowerdons, Weaklands and Newstead estates, and follows extensive consultations with residents.

Eventually over 1,000 new homes will be built by Home Housing, as part of a phased redevelopment programme. The Newstead proposals are the first of a five-phase scheme and will replace 41 existing properties. Each home will have a private garden and off-road parking, and the project will also incorporate a revised road system for the area.

The proposals have been backed by a steering group of residents who have been involved in the process throughout.

Coun Mike Pye said members of the steering group were looking forward to being involved in the next exciting stage of the project.

“They are fully supportive of these plans,” he added.

Of the 56 new homes, 23 will be available to rent, and planners feel the houses will set an appropriate standard for further developments.

There will also be substantial landscaping of the area, and planning chiefs feel that the estate will be created in an attractive and co-ordinated environment.

The scheme will be discussed by councillors on the South and East planning board on Monday.