Former vicarage to be demolished for flats

Plans to demolish a former vicarage to make way for 10 new homes have been given the go-ahead.

Permission has been granted to demolish St Mary's Vicarage in Spen Lane, Gomersal, and replace it with single-storey flats for people with supported living needs.

The application, submitted by the Leeds Diocesan Board of Finance, came as a shock to current tenants, who said the sudden uncertainty surrounding their tenancy was causing them "anxiety".

A supporting document on behalf of the applicant said the development was necessary to improve the mix of accommodation and tenure in Kirklees, and to respond to accumulating demand locally, regionally and nationally.

While the property's current tenants did not object to the development in itself, they had urged the council to fairly consider their situation and the "serious impact" the plans would have, the Local Democracy Service reports.

They wrote: "We are quiet, responsible tenants and contribute positively to our local community through work, care, and education.

"This sudden uncertainty has created anxiety for us as a family, especially without a clear plan for what happens if the development is approved."

With permission now granted, the building can be torn down.

A supporting document on behalf of the applicant concluded: "Such bespoke accommodation, designed to meet very high standards of accessibility and functionality, is rare in the English planning system.

"Generally seen as 'add-ons' to larger housing schemes, supported housing seldom receives the attention it deserves."

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