West Rainton affordable homes plan to be decided at appeal

An application by Woodside Commercial Developments for housing at land near Station Road, West Rainton, was turned down by councillors after objectors raised concerns that a new convenience store was not included in the proposal. 

The proposed development included single-storey bungalows and two-storey homes, each with their own parking areas and private rear gardens.

West Rainton and Leamside Parish Council supported the development, noting the increasing demand and need for affordable homes in the area.

A local petition from concerned neighbours about the lack of nearby shops received 338 signatures.

The affordable homes were set to be built in the area outlined in red. (Image: Woodside Commercial Developments)

The site is part of a larger housing development currently under construction by developer Banks Homes. It was outlined for commercial units in 2014 but received no interest. 

However, the developer argued there is “absolutely no market demand” for the previously planned community hub, housing is more in demand, and would benefit the community. 

An appeal statement submitted by the developer added: “Whilst County Durham has a huge unmet need for affordable housing across the whole local authority area, the appellant contends that the refused development remains a pragmatic alternative option.”

Woodside Developments has also applied for costs to be reimbursed since the planning application was refused by Durham County Council’s planning committee. 

Recommended reading:

• 'We cannot allow this generation to be wasted': Plea to help County Durham children

• Residents fear proposed 140m wind turbine would "tower" over County Durham landscape

• Warning that high streets are becoming 'unsafe and unhealthy' after wave of closures

It added: “The previous application should not have been refused by the Council, when there is a total lack of demand and need for a facility that is proposed to be replaced by a development of a affordable homes, including bungalows, to address a severe and onerous problem of affordable housing shortages, including bungalows to meet the needs of an ageing population, all of which the council continues to try to address, albeit with limited success, it would appear.  

“The refused development is overwhelmingly compliant with all relevant council planning policy within the development plan and with respect to material considerations.”

The proposal and the council’s decision will now be reviewed by a Government planning inspector.