MEMBERS of Bromsgrove District Council’s planning committee unanimously voted through proposals for nine new affordable homes across two disused garage sites.
The two applications by Bromsgrove District Housing Trust were for social rent properties on run-down areas in Sidemoor and Catshill.
The first, spread across the former garage site and public open space off York Avenue was for two two-bedroom houses suitable for four people and three one-bedroom homes for couples.
Officers said the land was surplus to requirements and there were two better green spaces, at Laurel Grove and the King George V Playing Field, which were within five minutes walking distance and provide quality meeting places.
The application also included a turning area and parking spaces for seven cars – two each for the two-bedroom homes and one each for the one-bedroom properties. There will also be sheltered secure parking for two bikes.
Coun Charles Hotham said: “The land they would be built on is not really a loss at all – it is literally scrubland.”
Coun Shannon added: “BDHT has a very good track record of building quality homes for the social sector with good-spaced gardens.
“The open spaces close by offer quality open space and play equipment.”
The Catshill development will boast four one-bedroom flats with two shared garden areas on land off Lingfield Walk.
Eamon Thompson, BDHT’s business manager, said there was a significant unmet demand for affordable housing which required the building of 290 affordable homes each year for the next five years.
“There’s a need for homes like these, especially of one or two bedrooms.”
Coun Caroline Spencer said at the site visit councillors were told about the Sidemoor site falling into a state of disrepair and being blighted by anti-social behaviour.
Coun Stephen Peters added: “We will all applaud any application for affordable housing and one-bedroom homes are important for those who are restricted by having to pay for extra bedrooms.”
Mr Thompson added after the meeting: “I’m really happy with the support from the planning committee.
“BDHT continues to work hard to build homes for hard-working Bromsgrove people.”
