The proposed scheme consists of 97 houses comprising a mix of 2, 3, and 4 bedroom houses and a number of bungalows. There is a quota of affordable housing built into the proposal, along with the prospect of 150 new jobs.
We have now received some initial informal feedback from the consultant which suggests that the proposal was largely well received by the public, although there were some concerns expressed by residents. We've also spoken separately to a number of people and their comments, with one or two exceptions, tended to be favourable to the development.
It would appear that many people feel that we need more housing of this type because it would enable more of our young people to stay in the village, rather than having to move elsewhere to settle. It is felt that there are insufficient newer properties available to buy in Blackhall, and when properties of this type do come up for sale they tend to be at the higher end of the scale, meaning that many of our local young people are priced out of the market. In theory at least, more housing of this type would increase choice and also reduce prices.
Some people felt that a scheme of this size would also ensure that our schools have a sufficient supply of pupils to sustain their roll numbers in future. Although our schools are doing well at the moment people tell us that they feel there is a need to sustain and increase the number of children going into our schools for the years ahead.
Concerns were expressed however about the possibility of flooding at this location, which slopes away from the track at the top down towards the Coast Road. The consultants have suggested that a SUDS pond to the north-east of the site would be sufficient to act as a conduit to prevent flooding, however this would be subject to a full flood risk assessment if the developer decided to seek planning approval.
Some people also expressed concerns about the visual impact of any development on their properties. The consultants have acknowledged this and have said they will consider reducing any adverse impact if and when final plans are submitted for approval.
Following issues raised about the type of housing potentially on offer, the consultant has now agreed to remove the 5-bedroom property quota proposed initially and to replace them with bungalows. This would seem to be a positive concession, given the high demand for bungalows in our village.
After yesterday's exhibition developers will now need to consider the initial comments made by residents and then decide whether or not they wish to submit a formal planning application to develop the land for housing. If they choose to apply for consent this will trigger a statutory period of public consultation during which members of the public will have their say on any final plans put forward by the developer.
Obviously at this stage we are not in a position to decide whether or not we support the proposal, partly because we don't know enough about it - beyond the details on public display yesterday - and partly because we feel that this initial stage should all be about what members of the public think. Final plans and proposals will become clearer if and when the developer decides to seek approval.
Whatever happens in the future we will write to the consultants to urge them to consider carefully the representations made by all of our residents, whether for or against the initial proposals. We believe strongly that people and communities should be at the very centre of the planning process - and as such their views are paramount.
We will update on progress with this matter as and when we receive further information.
