A housing developer faces issues as homes in Golcar lack proper planning permission
Huddersfield: A housing developer is in trouble. Homes in Golcar were built without the right planning permission. The situation is complicated.
As of July 2024, 13 homes were mostly sold and occupied. However, the developer has not secured the necessary permissions. They have been in talks with the council for some time.
The development got approval in February 2022. But later, the developer submitted changes to the plans. They built the homes while waiting for the council’s decision.
By January 2023, the developer, Brierstone Newsome Ltd, went into administration. The council denied the changes two months later. The developer didn’t get the news in time to appeal.
The council issued an enforcement notice to the landowner, Brierstone Newsome Ltd. This notice excluded homes already sold. But when three more homes were sold, the council withdrew the notice.
The developer’s agent expressed frustration over delays. The council took weeks to respond to questions. Appeals lodged in April 2024 may take 12 to 18 months to process.
The agent called the waiting time “unacceptable.” Homeowners and the landowner face uncertainty. They can’t sell any plots until the issue is resolved.
In July last year, the developer submitted a new planning application. They want to keep the homes as built and include some approved features. The council is still reviewing this application.
A supporting document argues that the homes do not harm the Golcar Conservation Area. The changes are minor and maintain the design quality.
Some locals have voiced their opinions. One resident objected, saying developers should follow approved plans. They worry that approving this application sets a bad precedent.
Others support the application, noting the homes are well-built and needed in Golcar. They believe the changes do not negatively impact the area.
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