Plans to build five homes in Stanhope refused after 46 objections

The proposal for four semi-detached four-bedroom houses and one two-bedroom house on overgrown land South of Fair View, Stanhope, was rejected due to concerns about its impact on the conservation area.

Durham County Council rejected the application due to the “loss of historically important open space,” which, despite being considered “less than substantial,” was not outweighed by public benefit claims.

Stanhope Parish Council strongly opposed it, citing the “conservation impact”, lack of housing need, and access/parking concerns.

Highways Authority also had concerns regarding conflicting vehicle movements.

The 46 objections included fears for access safety, harm to the conservation area, noise, potential biodiversity loss, lack of affordable housing, and contentious claims of fly-tipping or antisocial behaviour.

A resident who objected to the plans said: “The issue of access remains a serious problem with the application.

“The proposed developments are poorly designed in the context of the conservation area, and there is no planning relating to issues such as light pollution.

“The principle issue around traffic and poor access remains.”

The proposal included a new vehicle access route from Graham Street and parking spaces within the site, but Durham County Council made the decision to refuse the application on December 22.