Proposals to build 90 affordable homes on the footprint of a former housing estate in County Durham have received the green light. The scheme will regenerate land at Silver Courts, Vicarage Flats, Rowan Lea and Red Firs in Brandon, where 121 properties previously stood before demolition.
Development Details and Sustainability
Put forward by Believe Housing, the proposal features a combination of houses and bungalows, alongside fresh road infrastructure and landscaping improvements. Planning documentation indicates the development would supersede homes that were "no longer fit for purpose" while contributing towards addressing the need for affordable accommodation throughout County Durham.
Despite the site not being designated for residential use within the County Durham Plan, planning officers determined it occupied a "highly sustainable location" owing to its closeness to retail outlets, amenities and public transport links. Believe Housing stated the project would establish "a sustainable community" which mirrored the neighbourhood's character while providing homes to satisfy local requirements.
Community Support and Local Letting
Jonathan Elmer, Green Party county councillor representing Brandon ward, commended the housing provider's consultation with the local community during the planning process and advocated for a local lettings arrangement to guarantee residents receive preferential access to the new accommodation. "Given the approach that's been taken, the importance of regeneration in the area and the significance of a local letting policy, I recommend that we accept this application," he concluded.
The housing association stated that residents would have easy access to local amenities on foot or by bicycle, while the development would also enhance public transport links by upgrading an existing southbound bus stop and introducing a new northbound stop.
Housing Mix and Tenure
The approved scheme will consist of eight two-bedroom bungalows, two three-bedroom dormer bungalows, 18 two-bedroom houses, 52 three-bedroom houses (including seven split-level properties), and 10 four-bedroom houses. Properties will be offered through a mix of social rent, shared ownership and rent-to-buy arrangements.
