Agenda item

To receive and consider the attached report of the Chief Planning Officer regarding an application for a multi-level residential development (Class C3) with associated hard and soft landscaping and rooftop amenity space at a site on land off Water Lane, Holbeck, Leeds

The report of the Chief Planning Officer presented an application for a multi-level residential development (Class C3) with associated hard and soft landscaping and rooftop amenity space at a site on land off Water Lane, Holbeck, Leeds.

The application had been deferred at the previous meeting of the City Plans Panel.

Site Plans and photographs were displayed and referred to throughout the discussion of the application.

The following was highlighted in relation to the application:

·  Panel concerns on viability and lack of affordable housing – the applicant had worked with their funding provider to take a longer term approach which allowed for an enhanced offer.  There would now be 5% affordable housing and these would all be 3 bedroom units.  There would also be funding towards pedestrian works.

·  Concerns regarding carbon emissions and lack of 100% electrical vehicle charging at the outset – there would now be 100% availability at the time of the first occupation.

·  The site was connected to other developments in the area and was compatible with the emerging character of the area.

·  Pedestrian improvements included new crossing points, wider footpaths and additional lighting under the viaduct arches.

·  There was a reduction in the travel plan funding but an improved offer for provision of greenspace in the wider area.

·  Housing mix – city centre living showed that there was a need for more smaller units.

·  Landscaping – there would be provision of informal children’s play areas and use of natural materials.

·  The development would have a 100% electric heating system and there would be use of mechanical ventilation and photo voltaic cells.

In response to questions and comments from the Panel, the following was discussed:

·  Members were supportive of the proposed improvements to the movement of traffic including the provision of a one way system.

·  Benches with back supports would be provided in the open spaces.

·  There would be a maintenance agreement for the play equipment.

·  Members were supportive of the revised proposals and officers and the developers were thanked for their work in addressing the concerns previously raised.

RESOLVED – That the application be deferred and delegated to the Chief Planning Officer for approval, subject to the conditions at Appendix 2 of the report (and any amendment to or addition of others which the Chief Planning Officer considers appropriate), subject to resolving the outstanding concerns of the Health and Safety Executive and subject to the completion of a Section 106 agreement to secure the following:

1.  Employment and training of local people

2.  Publicly accessible areas

3.  Affordable housing provision which is subject to viability (in line with option 4 as detailed in paragraph 8.9 and Appendix 1 of the report)

4.  Travel Plan review fee

5.  The provision of two Leeds City Council Car Club provider parking spaces

6.  The provision of a Residential Travel Plan Fund which is subject to viability (see paragraphs 8.12, 8.13 and Appendix 1 of the report)

7.  A contribution towards pedestrian and cycle improvements in the area which is subject to viability (see paragraphs 8.12, 8.13 and Appendix 1 of the report)

8.  A Traffic Regulation Order affecting resident’s on street parking, within an 800m radius of the site (see paragraphs 8.12, 8.13 and Appendix 1 of the report)

9.  A green space contribution which is subject to viability (see paragraphs 8.12, 8.13 and Appendix 1 of the report)

10.A management fee

In the circumstances where the Section 106 has not been completed within 3 months of the Panel resolution to grant planning permission, the final determination of the applications shall be delegated to the Chief Planning Officer.