Conflict over roadworks: building project to proceed despite neighboring residents' protests
In a turn of events, the development of Blackbird Yard near Tesco in East Didsbury has been given the green light following a public inquiry. The decision was announced by Claire Searson, a government-appointed inspector, in September 2023.
The development, initially rejected by Manchester City Council, was met with controversy due to concerns about its environmental impact and traffic and parking issues. Dandara Living, the developer, had proposed to build a block of flats consisting of 75 apartments on the site.
Hundreds of objections were raised against the proposal, but the council's planning department performed a U-turn after Dandara Living appealed the decision. The legal appeal was filed following the initial rejection of planning permission by Manchester City Council.
The development is expected to add to the congestion of roads around it, a concern shared by many residents. However, Claire Searson concluded that future residents of the flats would not find it particularly attractive to park on the already busy roads nearby.
To address parking concerns, the developer has agreed to provide 36 parking spaces within the development and an additional £10,000 to put new parking restrictions in place. The inspector, however, addressed claims that a document provided by the developer to address parking concerns was 'erroneous'. She noted that the on-street parking survey provided by the developer was not particularly robust and the number of spaces available on Parrs Wood Avenue was overestimated.
The agreement between the developer and the council includes making a fifth of the new apartments affordable. This commitment aims to provide affordable housing options for local residents.
Interestingly, Claire Searson did not find anyone from the town hall present at the hearing held at the Friends Meeting House, almost four weeks ago. The local authority has decided not to defend its decision to refuse planning permission, leaving residents to oppose the development at the public inquiry.
The development of the apartment block can now proceed, a decision that has divided the community in East Didsbury. As the construction begins, it remains to be seen how the development will impact the local area in the long term.
