Teesside Bungalow Plan Approved Again After Five Attempts

A bungalow can be built in Thornton, again. The plan received approval five times now, with council members agreeing on the Cedar Drive plans. Approvals occurred since 1998, but work never started. Will construction actually begin this time?

Janet Thompson questioned the repeated approvals. The property sits near Stainton in Middlesbrough. Officers could not explain the prior inaction. Council staff suggested approval, with specific conditions, wanting a detached house and garage.

The council report called it a “high quality development,” noting its design suits nearby properties well and will not bother nearby residents much. Andrew Glossop manages development for the council. He said permission usually lasts three years, adding that previous approval was not used.

Highways raised no objections about this bungalow, and relevant councils also had no issues. Twelve contacted neighbors voiced no concerns either.

Glossop stated they plan a four bedroom bungalow, which will sit a good distance from homes and fit the area’s current feel. The site is overgrown now, and this should tidy the area, if built.

Ian Blades wondered why the council voted on this, given past approval existed with no objections and council officers decide on many applications themselves.

Glossop said the site is outside the development limits. Head of Planning Paul Clarke added some context, stating they present it because of local planning rules. Even without objections, it went to the committee.

Joan McTigue suggested approving the plan now. Ian Blades seconded this suggestion quickly, and the six council members present voted “yes”.