Appeal ruling overturns previous decision to reject plans for 149 homes

Plans to build 149 homes on Kingsley Road, Harrogate will go ahead following a successful planning appeal decision.

Developer Richborough Estates was supported by planning and design consultancy Barton Willmore in overturning a previous refusal for the scheme, which is on an allocated site connected to Harrogate’s Local Plan.

The Planning Inspectorate said Harrogate Borough Council had acted unreasonably in refusing the plans based on sustainability matters which had already been considered as part of the allocation process.

Hannah Woodall, graduate planner at Barton Willmore, said the site clearly met sustainability requirements given nearby public transport links and local services.

She explained: “Richborough Estates’ plans carefully considered connectivity and sustainability via footpaths and cycle access from Kingsley Road.

“There are walking routes to nearby bus stops, and the planning inspector noted “convenient” routes to local facilities and services on Knaresborough Road.

“The scheme also delivers a new footpath and cycleway through to Harrogate High School and improves links to the station and town centre.”

Richborough Estates was also awarded costs in connection with the appeal decision.

A spokesman for Harrogate Borough Council responded: We note the planning inspectorate’s decision and await the reserved matters submission from the applicant. This will be dealt with accordingly.”