Development would set 'undesirable precedent'

PLANS HAVE ATTRACTED 249 OBJECTIONS

- By GARETH LIGHTFOOT Local democracy reporter

Billingham West and Wolviston councillors Marcus Vickers (left) and David Reynard (right), who have spoken out about proposed developments in the area

PLANS for up to 179 homes and a community centre in Billingham have drawn more than 200 objections.

TCC Land has applied for outline planning permission to build up to 179 homes on two fields near Sandy Lane West, saying the proposed development could “support the employment of 622 people”.

The plans have attracted 249 comments in objection - and just one in support - on Stockton Council's planning portal.

Objectors refer to traffic “gridlocked around school times” and congestion problems around schools and Wolviston Court shops, with fears that the development could worsen the situation and be an “accident waiting to happen” if approved.

They also raise issues with the increased demand and pressure on schools and healthcare which new homes could bring. Comments include:

“The proposal would add to the already considerable traffic problems in the local area, in particular Whitehouse Road, Thames Road and Sandy Lane West. The current traffic situation needs to be addressed, without adding further housing which would inevitably bring further pressure and further safety concerns”;