Agenda and draft minutes

All members were present.

There were no declarations of interest stated.

To consider the minutes of the previous meeting(s)

Resolved:              That the minutes of the meeting held on 1^st October 2024 be agreed as a correct record.

To receive the decisions of applications which have been previously considered by this Working Party

Resolved:    That the report on the decision on applications previously considered by this Working Party be received.

To make observations on new applications received

Resolved:    That the following observations be made:

Midway Car Park, Newcastle 24/00678/FUL

The Working Party had no objections to the principle of repurposing the building.  They thought the design was brave and celebrated the existing structure.  They supported the colour of the red roof but overall thought that it was bold and should stay as a bright colour. They design of the landscaping would be transformative for the environment in a positive way, especially on the Midway elevation. Members wondered if the opportunity would be taken to add solar panels onto all roofs rather than just a few in the centre. 

Old Springs Hall, Stoneyford 24/00774/FUL

The Working Party had no objections to the proposals, only wondered if consideration had been given to a more organic access road through the centre, given that the historical map references showed the tracks as meandering and less formal.

Land at Merrial Street, Newcastle  24/00792/FUL

The Working Party had a general consensus that the development would improve and enhance the area but that the design was uninspiring and that it was imperative that it integrated with the rest of the place and the linear park. The boundaries were a key part of this and there was some concern regarding the choice of boundary treatment and they should continue to work with the council and the adjacent developer.  Concern was raised over insufficient parking especially for staff and carers. 

York Place, Merrial Street, Newcastle  24/00795/FUL

The Group felt that the scheme was successful within the streetscene of Red Lion Square and would be transformative. They hoped that the materials wouldn’t date and wanted to ensure that the basement music venue was part of the scheme as a key element to regenerating the town.

Roebuck Centre, High Street, Newcastle 24/00786/FUL

The Group wanted to ensure that the windows were amended as they didn’t sit well with the existing building in terms of their square emphasis and that they could be incorporated within the standing seam sections and/or maybe floor to ceiling lengths. 

To consider any applications for financial assistance from the Conservation and Heritage Fund which may have been brought to this meeting by the officer

An application was received from:

St Margaret’s Primary School, Wolstanton

Resolved:    That the following be agreed:

St Margarets School, Wolstanton

The group fully supported the giving of the grant.

To consider any business which is urgent within the meaning of Section 100B(4) of the Local Government Act, 1972

There was no urgent business.