The North Northamptonshire Council Planning Committee met to discuss planning applications for a residential development in Wellingborough and a non-material amendment to an industrial development in Corby. The committee approved both applications, with conditions. Councillor Jennie Bone was also elected as vice-chair of the committee.

5-9 Midland Road, Wellingborough

The committee approved a request to grant delegated powers to the Executive Director of Place and Economy to approve the application for the demolition of the former Wellingborough Post Office at 5-9 Midland Road, and the construction of a residential development consisting of 74 apartments. This is subject to the completion of a Section 106 agreement¹ and the conditions listed in the report. Nicola Thompson, Senior Planning Officer, presented the report, outlining the proposal, site description, planning history, relevant policies, consultation outcomes, and an assessment.

One speaker, Mr Adrian Stevenson, addressed the committee on behalf of RDC Development Consultants.

Concerns were raised about the lack of parking, the potential loss of the building’s façade, and the absence of affordable housing. Members suggested re-using the Post Office signage to acknowledge the site's history.

Arguments in favour of the development included that the site had been derelict for around 25 years, and that bringing it back into use would benefit Wellingborough. It was also noted that the site is in a sustainable location, and that the development would create jobs during construction, and bring more vitality to the town centre.

Former Weetabix Ltd Site, Earlstrees Road, Corby

The committee approved a non-material amendment to planning permission NC/22/00198/DPA for the former Weetabix Ltd site on Earlstrees Road, concerning changes to the finished floor level and building height.

Richard Marlow, Senior Planning Officer, presented the report. He explained that the non-material change was necessary because the existing concrete pad had been able to be reused during the development stage, resulting in a small increase in the finished floor level, eaves height and ridge height.

Councillors questioned why the non-material change was necessary. It was explained that the changes were minor and imperceptible to the naked eye .

Members agreed that the reuse of available material was a sustainable approach.

Election of Vice-Chair

Councillor Jennie Bone was elected as vice-chair of the committee, following a nomination by Councillor David Brackenbury, which was seconded by Councillor Paul Brooke.