Controversial plans to bulldoze a 19th century house next to the Cherry Tree in Newcastle and build 12 flats have been deferred by councillors. The plans were set to receive the green light after planning officers recommended approval.

The existing house on the site, which dates back to the 19th century, has become 'run down and dilapidated', according to the plans lodged to Newcastle Borough Council. The proposed building for the 12 flats on Victoria Street would have a 'contemporary appearance', with a mix of vertical zinc cladding and traditional red brick.

Speaking on behalf of the application, Judith Edgeley told committee members: "Our family business has been trading for over 50 years around Newcastle and Stoke, our aim is to provide high-quality, good-sized homes. The plans you see presented today are the result of a very involved planning process, discussed with Newcastle planning department, highways agency, transport consultants and local residents.

The plans are for 12 brand-new flats on Victoria Road, just off London Road in Newcastle (Nub News).

"The scheme we have designed has been created with the goal of improving and benefiting our local community. The transport statement conducted requested six parking spaces for the development, we have provided six spaces as requested. The transport statement also demonstrates there is enough available on-street parking to accommodate any additional parking needs."

However, councillors remained unconvinced that parking needs would be met. Councillor Wendy Brockie told councillors: "There appears to be an acknowledgement of the fact that parking is inadequate because there are measures within the development proposed to promote non car modes of travel."

Councillor Dave Jones added: "There are only six car parking spaces for 12 apartments and that's assuming that one car for two apartments, officers have said that doesn't meet our minimum requirements. I know we've received input for highways, I'm afraid that's a desk-top study and has no awareness of the parking pressure in that area."

The plans were set to be approved after they were recommended for approval, but the plans have now been deferred (Nub News).

Due to the nature of the development council officers previously recommended entering into a legal agreement to secure a contribution of £62,426 towards offsite open space. However the applicant claimed this would make the development unviable, therefore the contribution is not required.

The proposed design, especially the metallic cladding were a concern for Councillor Andy Fear, who said: "I personally am very concerned about the proposed design of this building. In particular I am concerned about the large amount of metallic cladding which is going to go along the street scene in Victoria Street."

------------

READ MORE: Pop-up MMR vaccination clinics to be held in Stoke-on-Trent this month

Subscribe to our FREE weekly newsletter email HERE - just click the 'SIGN UP' button.

Free from clickbait, pop-up ads and unwanted surveys, Stoke Nub News is a quality online newspaper for our city.

Please consider following Stoke Nub News on Facebook or Twitter.