Councillors support plans for 150 homes on Pickering's edge despite concerns
Yorkshire Water's sewer capacity objection among issues raised
Plans for developing up to 150 homes on the outskirts of Pickering have gained the backing of North Yorkshire councillors, even as various concerns persist.
Members of North Yorkshire Council's Thirsk and Malton area planning committee expressed their intent to approve an outline planning application for the housing project on land off Whitby Road.
The planned development includes a blend of housing, with 35 per cent designated as affordable homes, complemented by public open spaces, landscaping, and enhancements to biodiversity.
Planning Process and Concerns
At a meeting held at Ryedale House in Malton last Thursday, planning officers recommended approval for the application.
However, councillors pointed out several issues, chief among them an objection from Yorkshire Water over the public sewer network and wastewater treatment works' capacity to accommodate the proposed homes.
Concerns about the scheme’s lighting affecting the Dark Skies initiative in the neighbouring North York Moors National Park were also raised.
Though deferral of the meeting was suggested for further examination of these points, councillors opted for a ‘minded to approve’ motion.
This allows council officers to address raised issues without re-presenting the scheme to the committee.
Officers reassured that, despite Yorkshire Water’s objection, water companies are obligated to provide necessary infrastructure should housing get approved.
The council can impose conditions on the development to ensure this happens.
Policy and Planning Implications
The officer recommendation came despite recognising that the site exceeds the town's defined development boundaries, typically restricting new housing under the local plan.
A report noted that “normal circumstances” would oppose development due to policy conflict.
Nevertheless, officers observed the authority's inability to present a five-year supply of deliverable housing land as mandated by the government.
As a result, planning applications for housing are favoured when that target isn't met.
Public Concerns
The council has received 15 objections from local residents, alongside one in support of the scheme.
Objectors raised traffic concerns, particularly about site access and potential highway safety risks.
Questions over whether local services and infrastructure could withstand the demand of additional homes were also highlighted, including drainage capacity, environmental ramifications, and impacts on local ecology.
Councillors and officials continue to consider these issues while proceeding towards potential development approval.