Mixed reaction to RBH plans for 26 houses between Hazelhurst Drive and Tintern Road in Middleton

A computer-generated image of how the houses could look

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There has been a mixed reaction to plans submitted by Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) to build 26 houses on the land between Hazelhurst Drive and Tintern Road in Middleton. 

In January 2017, RBH were awarded a £3.4m government grant to support the delivery of 99 new homes across the Borough for "rent to buy" and shared ownership.

https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/107345/rbh-receives-%C2%A334m-affordable-homes-boost

The red brick houses would be a mix of two and three-bed dwellings with associated landscaping and car parking. All of the properties are for Shared Ownership. The existing open space forms a link between Hazelhurst Drive and Tintern Road which, in principle, is to be retained as a central linear park within the proposed development.

An RBH spokesman said: “As part of getting on with this new build programme, we have submitted a planning application to deliver 26 new homes for shared ownership on our land between Hazelhurst Drive and Tintern Drive in Middleton.

“These will be high-quality new homes which will provide a new option for residents who would like to own their own home but may need a bit of help to be able to buy; for example, enabling local people to buy a new affordable home and stay in their local community.”

A consultation about the proposals was held on 15 June at Hollin EMB. 21 people attended, a mix of RBH residents, private home owners and people interested in purchasing the new homes. Attendees were able to look at the proposed plans, speak with RBH officers and the appointed architect (Bowker Sadler). Attendees were able to submit their feedback through feedback forms which were handed out at the event. 11 feedback forms were submitted, showing seven were in favour of the plans, three against and one neutral.

However, four online objection letters have been received so far from local residents, raising concerns about overlooking, lack of green space, wildlife, and antisocial behaviour.

Nearby residents John and Mary Kelly are concerned two of proposed dwellings will overlook their property, and removal of trees next to their home may ‘lead to some subsidence’ on their property in the future.

A resident of Hazelhurst Drive, James Haworth, called the application ‘unbelievable’.

He wrote: “I moved here when I was nine. When the estate was first built there were amply places for myself and others to play, such as the all-weather sports pitch along with a nicely-maintained grass field.

“These facilities were great and well used by everyone in the local community. They have now been removed completely. The sports pitch wasn’t replaced with grass and became derelict, and the field turned into an overgrown mess. I see kids now just loitering the streets because there is nowhere for them to go.

“This should be more of a priority than a quick ‘housing fix’. People need green space.”

Man Ching Wong, another resident of Hazelhurst Drive, also echoed concerns of diminished greenery and antisocial behaviour.

She said: “At present, the pathway from Tintern to Hazelhurst already attracts a number of antisocial behaviour from young youths using the path. The housing plans are likely to increase the number of youths in the area.”

Graham Fenton, a resident of Oakway, added: “On numerous occasions, I have discussed this land with the council. There has been landscaping with rocks to help wildlife flourish and decorate the areas. Plans for a playground were turned down for wildlife, noise and keeping the open space.

“All the time the council promoted this as a wildlife public area: there are lots of wildlife in this area from birds, insects, foxes, squirrels, to name a few. With all the proposed developments growing around this area, this isn’t fair on the locals either.”

The RBH spokesman continued: “We are very grateful to all the local residents who came to our consultation event to speak to us about the proposals. We know that some residents have expressed concerns about the impact of additional homes, and about potential disruption during the construction period. We have also received some really positive feedback from nearby residents about making the gardens which currently back onto the area more secure, and welcoming a new affordable housing option in the area. We have already had enquiries from local residents about whether they can put their name down to be considered.

“We want to be a good neighbour and we always work closely with our contractors to minimise any disruption while new homes are being constructed. If our plans receive planning approval, we will hold further drop-in sessions to keep residents informed and discuss how we can best work together with the local community.”