Flats plan rejection a 'massive win for the area'

COUNCILLORS have claimed a “massive win for the area” after an inspector turned down an appeal by a developer wishing to build flats on the site of a former social club, albeit on a technicality.

- By STUART ARNOLD

Ten flats were proposed for the building housing the 99-year-old Eston and California Social Club, in Eston High Street, which closed in September 2023 and was later put up for sale by estate agents.

The plans were refused permission last year by Redcar and Cleveland Council’s regulatory committee amid concerns over an overconcentration of such developments and there being no adequate provision for parking or bins, along with communal outdoor space.

The applicant appealed that decision to the Government’s Planning Inspectorate in March which, in a recently announced outcome, dismissed the appeal.

Planning inspector Ryan Cowley, who visited the site in June, appeared, based on his comments, to be broadly content with the proposal.

But he also highlighted the fact that it was within the “zone of influence” for recreational disturbance and the nutrient neutrality catchment area for the Teesmouth and Cleveland Coast Special Protection Area and a so-called Ramsar site - wetland which is of international importance.