‘Eyesore’ apartment block plan go back to the drawing board
A proposed apartment block thrown out by councillors after nearby residents branded it an eyesore could still go ahead after developers submitted a newer, smaller design.
The original scheme for a 19-apartment block and two separate homes near Whitehall Road in Cradley Heath was rejected after objections from residents.
But Sandwell councillors will now be asked to decide on a revised application which has put forward scaled down plans for the same site.
Eight months ago the borough’s planning committee voted unanimously to deny planning permission after hearing from residents that an original four story development was "too intense".
At that time one resident told councillors: “If the development goes ahead it will have a substantial impact on their lives.
“Its size and impact would be intense and quite overpowering.”
Written objections claimed it would be an eyesore, overlook neighbouring homes and reduce the limited amount of green space in Cradley Heath Town Centre.
Planning officers also recommended councillors refuse the plans saying it was of poor design and out of scale and appearance with the existing area.
Summarising their reasons for refusal, they added: “The scheme as outlined is too intensive, does not respond to the local characteristics of the area and would have a detrimental effect on the amenity of existing residents by virtue of loss of light and outlook.”
But councillors could now be asked to revisit their original decision after developers submitted plans in October proposing a two storey development with only 13 apartments.
As part of the new scheme, the application for two separate homes on the site have been withdrawn.
A date for the application to be heard by councillors has yet to be set.
