‘It's the wrong place to put it’

HOUSING PLAN RECEIVED HUNDREDS OF OBJECTIONS FROM RESIDENTS

- By GARETH LIGHTFOOT

A PROPOSAL to build up to 179 homes in Billingham has been refused by councillors after it received hundreds of objections saying it was an “accident waiting to happen”.

Numerous residents spoke up at a meeting of Stockton Council's decision-making planning committee after the plans for Sandy Lane West, Billingham, drew 279 letters of objection and just one in support.

People who have lived in the area for decades raised concerns including “horrific” and “incredible” traffic congestion near three schools, potential “chaos” and strain on overstretched, overwhelmed services.

Tom Cart, managing director of developer TCC Land, told Wednesday's meeting he wanted the Middlesbrough-based company to help the region grow: “I want to be able to walk into my local pub as the man who delivers good stuff for his community.”

He said he had made changes and taken on board suggestions, including traffic calming speed cushions, for the outline plan.

“I've stood in the middle of a muddy field with my boots on, I've stood and listened to feedback from residents,” he said. “I want to be able to drive my family past this development and be proud to tell them we developed it.”

Objector Gemma Laycock countered: “My children are going to have to live in it. And I've got serious concerns.”

Samantha McHale said a community petition gathered over 500 signatures, arguing the plan was not safe, sustainable or beneficial.

“The strength of the feeling of our community is clear, our community is united and we're saying no,” she said. “It will only deepen existing inequalities. We should be investing in services before adding further pressure, not the other way around.