Objectors fail to block mill development

Oldham Planning Committee

PLANS to transform the former site of Delph’s Lumb Mill into homes have been resurrected after stalling during the credit crunch.

Councillors approved two separate applications for the site off Huddersfield Road.

The first by Quantum Star Ltd, to the west of the site, was for 14 flats in two three-storey blocks of apartments and parking for an existing office block in between.

The plans are very similar to an office development scheme approved in 2007, with the only change in appearance being the windows layout.

Saddleworth Parish Council had opposed the application saying not enough has been done to market the site for industrial use.

Three letters of objection from residents argued vehicle access and car parking provision would be compromised.

Hindle Terrace residents were assured their vehicle access wouldn’t be affected.

Planning officers said the site had been marketed for offices and there had been no genuine interest. An application for the other part of the site from Three 60 Property Investors involves a development of 41 houses, and eight apartments. Five of the houses will be made available as affordable housing units.

A previously approved scheme involved 44 apartments and 25 houses but the applicant said the latest plans were more efficient and marketable.

The parish council again objected saying the proposed materials and basic layout were a cause for concern. There were three letters of objection saying it would overlook neighbours causing a loss of privacy and create highway dangers.

Planning officers said the highway and material provisions, a mix of stone and red brick to match properties in the area, are acceptable. They added that the two developments will complement each other.

Councillor John Hudson said: “I find this a lot better than when we had all the flats” and Councillor Roger Hindle agreed, adding: “We need family houses rather than one-bed flats.”