Key Takeaways
- 43 new homes have been approved for construction on Northwall Road in Deal, despite 44 letters of opposition from local residents
- The development will include 38 houses and 5 apartments, with 30% of the homes being affordable
- Residents had raised concerns about flooding, traffic, and noise pollution, but the planning committee voted unanimously in favor of the scheme
- The development will include improved landscaping, tree planting, and biodiversity enhancements, as well as measures to reduce flood risk and improve road safety
- The site, currently an industrial area, will be transformed into a residential area with reduced commercial traffic and improved environmental conditions
Introduction to the Development
The planning committee of Dover District Council (DDC) has given the green light to a new housing development on Northwall Road in Deal, despite significant opposition from local residents. The scheme, which was approved on December 18, will see the construction of 43 new homes, including 38 houses and 5 apartments, on a 1.6-hectare site currently used for industrial purposes. The development will also include parking and landscaping, as well as measures to improve road safety and reduce flood risk.
Concerns Raised by Residents
Local residents had raised several concerns about the development, including the potential for increased traffic and congestion on Northwall Road and neighboring streets. One resident noted that the current turning at the end of the road is already dangerous, particularly during peak hours, and that the addition of 80 or more cars would significantly worsen the situation. Others expressed concerns about the impact of the development on air quality, noise pollution, and the overall quality of life for residents in the area. Additionally, some residents noted that the site is located near a level crossing and is at risk of flooding, which could pose safety risks for residents and pedestrians.
Response from the Developers and Council Officers
The developers, Kentish Projects Ltd, and their agents, Hume Planning Consultancy, argued that the development would bring several benefits to the area, including the removal of industrial activity and the creation of new homes. Alister Hume, of Hume Planning Consultancy, noted that the site is a "brownfield of opportunity" and that the replacement of industrial activity with housing would bring environmental enhancements and improved landscaping. Council officers also recommended approval of the scheme, citing the benefits of improved road access, biodiversity enhancements, and measures to reduce flood risk.
Planning Conditions and Mitigations
As part of the approval, the council has imposed several conditions on the developers to mitigate the potential impacts of the development. These include measures to prevent the discharge of surface water onto the highway, the provision of details on a foul drainage scheme to address concerns about sewage smells, and the installation of an audible alarm system to enhance safety at the level crossing. The developers will also be required to provide improved landscaping and tree planting, as well as biodiversity enhancements to improve the environmental conditions of the site.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The approval of the development marks a significant milestone in the transformation of the Northwall Road site from an industrial area to a residential community. While concerns about traffic, flooding, and noise pollution remain, the council and developers have taken steps to mitigate these impacts and create a safe and sustainable living environment for residents. As the development moves forward, it will be important for the council and developers to continue to work with local residents to address any ongoing concerns and ensure that the benefits of the development are realized for the community as a whole.