The Area Planning Committee (South and West) convened to consider several planning applications, including the conversion of a listed church into flats, the change of use of a dwelling to a children's home, and a residential development. The committee was scheduled to review reports and assess the merits of each application against local and national planning policies.

St Lukes Church Conversion, Sedgefield

The committee was scheduled to consider two applications (DM/24/01990/FPA and DM/24/01991/LB) relating to St Lukes Church, Sedgefield, Stockton On Tees, for its conversion from a gym to 10 residential flats, with a shared gym and office space. The proposed development includes the insertion of rooflights and window replacements.

Sedgefield Town Council raised concerns regarding parking, increased traffic, internal changes to the listed building, and the installation of rooflights. Councillor Lines also objected to the application, citing concerns about the impact on the Grade II listed building, traffic, highway safety, road access, and parking.

The proposed conversion aims to bring the vacant building back into use, securing its long-term preservation. The applicant, Mr George Bhaker, stated that the proposed changes would respect the architectural integrity of the structure while enabling its viable re-use. The plans include conserving and restoring significant architectural elements, such as stained glass windows, the pulpit, light fittings, and encaustic tiles.

The planning report notes that the church is a Grade II listed building, and that Section 66 of the (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 requires the council to consider the desirability of preserving listed buildings and their settings.

The report also notes that the council's Design and Conservation team supported the approval of the application to secure the fabric of the building.

Change of Use to Children's Home, Windlestone Park

The committee was scheduled to consider an application (DM/25/01404/FPA) for a change of use at Greystones, Windlestone Park, Windlestone, Ferryhill, from a dwellinghouse to a residential institution as a children's home for one child.

Windlestone Parish Council objected to the proposal, citing a lack of infrastructure, impact on the character of the Windlestone Conservation Area¹ and neighbouring properties, impact on residential amenity, safety concerns, and issues with highway access and parking. Concerns were also raised about the suitability of the location and the potential impact on community cohesion.

Durham Constabulary raised no significant concerns but provided details of mitigation measures to be considered.

The planning report notes that the site is located within the Windlestone Conservation Area and the Grade II listed Windlestone Hall Park and Garden of Special Historic Interest. It is also located within the designated Area of Higher Landscape Value.

The Council's Children's and Young People's Services stated that there is a need for longer term small children's homes within the area, but considered that there are sufficient short term/assessment provision available if required.

Residential Development, Dean Bank

The committee was scheduled to discuss an outline consent application (DM/24/03322/OUT) for residential development of up to 18 dwellings at Dean & Chapter Allotments, Dean And Chapter Industrial Estate, Dean Bank. The application includes access, but all other matters are reserved.

Ferryhill Town Council supported the application but raised concerns regarding congestion and recommended careful consideration of access roads and speed calming measures. The Town Council also highlighted the presence of a former pit road, suggesting it is a heritage asset that should be protected and enhanced.

The planning report notes that the site is designated as allotment land within the council's Open Space Needs Assessment (OSNA). The site is in Flood Risk Zone 1 and is within a high-risk area for past coalfield development.

The Coal Authority raised no objection subject to pre-commencement conditions.

The planning report refers to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and the County Durham Plan (CDP) when assessing the application.