'At last some common sense' as new homes set to go ahead at Normanby Hall
Councillors faced shouts of "shame" after giving the green light to plans for new homes on the grounds of the grade II listed Normanby Hall.
Over 140 written objections were submitted to Redcar and Cleveland Council regarding a proposal to construct 21 four-bedroom 'executive' detached properties with car parking, which would involve clearing some surrounding woodland. Teesside Liver readers are generally in favour of rescuing the hall, but are concerned about the possible loss of trees.
A meeting was informed that refurbishing the hall could cost several million pounds. The new homes would be sold in stages to fund its repair, restoration, and eventual planned conversion into 11 two-bedroom apartments.
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The council’s regulatory committee heard that its Local Plan had allocated the land for 25 homes, considering it a sustainable location. A conservation-led, sympathetic scheme leading to the hall's reuse was also supported.
The vote ended in a 4-4 tie, with committee chairman Councillor Stuart Smith casting the deciding vote to approve the application, which officers had recommended. Listed building consent for the hall works, subject to a separate application, was also unanimously granted. The decision was met with cries of "shame", "rubbish" and "disgusting", with one woman in the public gallery exclaiming "so much for the environment".
Local Councillor Vera Rider expressed her support, seconded by Councillor Ian Hart. She stated: "If the hall stays there any longer in the state it is, it will either fall down or be burnt down."
One Teesside Live commenter says: “Look at Acklam hall in Middlesbrough, totally blighted by the mass of housing built near it and the neglect of the land behind it, at least this development will not have as many houses and is better planned.” Robbie W thinks: “I expect most of the objections come from people that live in Normanby Hall Park or Coach House Mews. Personally I think it's a good thing and hope Mr Boyes does what he says.”
Michelle Ward agrees: “Is this not better than it being derelict and at risk of damage, fire etc.? Cannot win around here! People want change and growth, but moan at the first sight of it happening. Executive accommodation doesn’t sound like a council estate to me.”
Steve Johnson adds: “Where do these people that are objecting live? If they live miles away it's none of their business and if they live in the vicinity, think on! How much green field space was lost when your house was built? How many trees were lost when coach house mews was built? Or Normanby Hall Park, or Cricket Lane? Hypocrisy at its best, I can live here but nobody else can.”
55normanby asks: “If this Grade 11 listed building is so important, then why hasn’t the council instructed the previous owners to keep it in a decent state of repair? Also trees and wildlife are not considered, just look at the amount of woodland that was knocked down for the new houses on Flats Lane. Money is the name of the game.”
Another commenter agrees: “Soon there will be nothing left to sell, what will these councillors be remembered for? Money, money, money.”
RiSki writes: “Seems like a great way to bring this old derelict building back into use.” Al Turner agrees: “At last some common sense, living in the present not the past!”
How do you feel about the redevelopment of Normanby Hall? Will it save the building for future generations or is it just more unneeded housing? Have your say in our comments section.