Concerns at facelift plan for shops
Apr 14 2008 by Dave Black, The Journal
RESIDENTS’ groups have voiced concerns over the proposed revamp of a rundown mini-shopping centre which serves one of the region’s most affluent communities.
Developers have drawn up a scheme to modernise, expand and improve the appearance of the 40-year-old Broadway shopping and residential centre at the heart of Darras Hall in Ponteland.
Property company Zara Commercial proposes a significant investment to give the 13 shops and businesses a major facelift and increase the number of flats and maisonettes above them from 18 to 28.
But now Ponteland Civic Society and the Darras Hall Estates Committee – both of which act as watchdogs for developments in the upmarket community – have raised concerns about the plans, while welcoming the Broadway refurbishment in principle.
The Civic Society says the proposed form of the building is out of keeping with the area and members would like to see a full mock-up of the building materials before giving its backing. It also has concerns about the loss of nearby parking and trees.
The Estates Committee, which lays down a set of guidelines for new development in Darras Hall, fears the scheme could have a harmful impact and says it would like to see detailed drawings before permission is granted.
In addition, eight local residents and businesses say the changes would worsen already inadequate parking and occupants of the flats will be able to overlook nearby properties.
On Wednesday, Castle Morpeth Council’s development services committee members will hold a site visit before deciding on planning permission at their meeting a week later.
The proposals aim to give the Broadway centre a major facelift and improve security to tackle growing problems of anti-social behaviour and vandalism in the area.
The plans involve making the whole building three storeys, with access to the flats and maisonettes via three new lift and staircase towers to the rear.
A report by planning officers to the development services committee on April 22 says: “The centre is in need of renovation and the investment proposed and the architectural style of treatment should create a new image and provide accommodation that is up to today’s standards. It is therefore highly welcome.”
However, there are concerns about parking provision and that deck access to the flats may overlook homes in Longmeadows and Middle Drive.
