Proposed apartment block in Gornal slammed by councillors

The proposal to build seven flats and parking for 11 cars is being opposed by all three local elected council members who say it will overlook nearby homes and is far too tall.

Asking Dudley Council development committee to throw out the scheme, Cllrs Bryn Challenor, Anne Millward and David Stanley are backing objections from nearby residents.

In a written submission attacking the proposals Cllr Stanley said: “Taking into account the land levels, a three-storey block of flats would be totally out of place in this location.  

“The development would have an adverse effect on the character of the area and also the residential amenity. Access to the application site plus parking is very inadequate in this location. 

“It would result in roadside parking that would be likely to lead to a reduction of the highway capacity in this area. This will result in a cramped form of development.”

He is supported by Cllr Challenor who wrote: ”I would like to object to a three-storey building. I would much prefer to see a two-storey building. My reason would be for the loss of privacy (overlooking other properties) loss of view, parking, potential noise and blocking the sun from neighbours gardens.”

Planning officers though have recommended the council’s development committee back the plans, saying houses in the immediate vicinity of the site are of a comparable density and scale. 

In a report to planning councillors they said: “The principle of residential use of this site is considered to be acceptable as the proposal represents the use of vacant land for housing, at an appropriate density and within an urban area. 

“The development would make a positive contribution to the character of the area and would not have any detrimental impact on residential amenity or highway safety as a result.”

Members of the development committee will discuss the proposal at their meeting on September 10.