Appeal success on Kirklees Urban Greenspace

Planning permission has been granted for Strata Homes’ development of 39 dwellings on urban greenspace at New Lane, Cleckheaton following a four day public inquiry.

Spawforths provided expert witness services on housing delivery, planning policy and urban greenspace matters.

In allowing the appeal, the Planning Inspector concluded that it was inappropriate for the Council to protect large swathes of land for visual amenity purposes given the severe and chronic shortage of housing land in Kirklees; that urban greenspace is required to meet the authority’s housing needs; and that the development of the appeal site would not prejudice the wider urban greenspace designation within which it is located. The appeal scheme’s contribution to the District’s market and affordable housing requirements was concluded to be of substantial importance.

This is Spawforths’ second appeal success in securing residential development on urban greenspace site within as many weeks.

Should you wish to discuss any issues arising from this appeal or any other urban greenspace sites, please contact Paul Bedwell or Anna Turton.