Planning applications approved by Wakefield Council: Pontefract housing scheme given green light
Councillors have voted unanimously in favour of plans to build 71 homes next to a railway line in Pontefract.
Wakefield Council’s planning and highways committee was asked to consider proposals to build the properties on land off Cobblers Lane due to concerns it would create traffic problems in the area.
Barrett Homes was given the go-ahead for the scheme, which involves building 39 three-bedroom and 25 four-bedroom homes.
A further seven “affordable homes”, including two wheelchair-accessible bungalows, will also be constructed.
The 2.7 hectare site, which previously belonged to the council, is bounded to the north by the Dearne Valley rail line and agricultural land to the east.
The council received 14 objections to the proposal, including those from local councillors Clive Tennant and Hannah Appleyard.
Those opposed to the scheme said building more homes would add to traffic congestion and road safety problems in the area.
Others said the scheme would impact on wildlife habitats and result in a loss of countryside.
Paul Butler, speaking on behalf of the developer, told a meeting at Wakefield Town Hall that the council’s traffic officers had raised no concerns over the plans.
Mr Butler said evidence had been submitted which showed local traffic junctions would continue to operate within capacity once the development was completed.
He added that the new homes would have less than a one per cent impact on traffic in the area at peak times.
Mr Butler said: “It has been considered a suitable housing site for over a decade.
“There are no major issues associated with the development.”
Planning officer Ruth Thackray said the work was considered to have an impact on the greenbelt but there were “very special circumstances” to enable the work to go ahead.
Three people supported the scheme, saying it would “offer more sought-after houses and enhance Pontefract.”
A planning statement submitted on behalf of the developer said: “The development proposals deliver a range of new homes which takes into account the current housing needs, housing demands and housing stock of Pontefract and the wider Wakefield area.
“Ten different house types have been incorporated into the proposals, including two-storey semi-detached and detached properties.
“The scale/heights of the buildings will ensure that the residential amenity of existing and proposed residents is protected.”