Decision to reject plans for over 55s flats is overturned on appeal

Flats designed for people aged over-55 will be built in north Leeds after a Government planning inspector overturned Leeds City Council’s decision to refuse the development.

Developers said in August 2020 that the scheme in Grove Lane, Meanwood, would provide extra care for older people.

Proposals are for an H-shaped, four-storey building containing 58 apartments.

The application was met by more than 300 objections from local people who said it would be out of character with the neighbourhood and would destroy green space.

Council planners rejected planning permission in November that year, concluding there would be an “inappropriate amount of overlooking” onto nearby properties.

Developer, Roseville, lodged an appeal to the planning inspectorate which has now been upheld.

The planning inspector’s report states: “I have found the proposal would conflict with some policies of the development plan due to the moderate harm arising to views of the important landscape beyond the site.

“However, that moderate harm would be outweighed by the substantial benefits arising in respect of housing supply, and in particular the significant contribution towards meeting an identified specialist housing need and affordable housing.

“There are also more limited benefits including the provision of a publicly accessible pocket park, public right of way improvements, an increase in biodiversity, employment and support for local services.

“The substantial weight that I afford to the benefits of this proposal outweighs the moderate weight that I attribute to the conflict with specified policies in the development plan for the area.

“Consequently, and on balance, I conclude the appeal should be allowed.”