Local Plan proposal sparks ‘back door’ development fears

A COUNCILLOR has voiced fears of housing developers “sneaking in by the back door” after another formal step was taken towards the adoption of Middlesbrough's Local Plan.

- By STUART ARNOLD

A report considered at a full council meeting sought approval so a planning inspector could recommend modifications, where necessary, in order for the strategic document to be found sound during an independent examination of it.

The council agreed its Local Plan in March, the plan being a legislative requirement which sets out policies, allocations and designations for the delivery of development supporting new housing and economic growth. Middlesbrough Council's target is to build at least 420 new homes per year, including bungalows, flats, family houses, and affordable homes, with a total of 7,980 new homes by 2041.

Stainton and Thornton councillor David Coupe, a Conservative, pointed out that his ward contained 55% of available land in the town for potential future development. He sought assurances that if any changes were to be made, he and others would be informed.