Supported living flats plan for laundrette refused
LDRSPlans to turn a former laundrette and dog grooming parlour into supported living apartments have been unanimously refused.
Developer KSH had hoped to bulldoze the site at Proudfoot Drive, in Bishop Auckland, and build 17 apartments for adults with disabilities and autism there.
However, Durham County Council has recommended that the planning application be turned down over a lack of information, unsatisfactory living conditions and for not fitting in with the "street scene".
In its application KSH said the building was an "eyesore" and there was a "significant and growing shortage of modern supported living accommodation".
KSH said the laundrette shut in September due to lack of customers, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
The developer had offered to open up the laundry area to the public to "safeguard" its future.
However, at the planning committee meeting, Reform councillor Tom Redmond for Bishop Auckland urged the applicant to build elsewhere.
He said: "Removing this provision risks creating a new gap in local services while trying to address another.
"Alternative sites should therefore be explored or ensure continued laundry provision is secured before demolition proceeds."
'Doesn't fit'
KSH said the site was "highly suitable" with shops, bus routes and health services.
It added: "County Durham continues to face a significant and growing shortage of modern supported living accommodation for adults with disabilities, autism and mental health needs.
"This scheme provides high quality, accessible homes that allow vulnerable residents to live independently, safely and within their own community."
Reform councillor Adrian Schulmann said of the development: "It doesn't fit in with the street scene, so it shouldn't be built."
