Plans to transform an abandoned Huddersfield site into 33 new homes have moved a step closer after developers submitted a series of reports aimed at satisfying council safety requirements.
The former industrial plot on Dowker Street in Milnsbridge was granted planning permission earlier this year, with developers Westshield proposing a mix of one, two and three-bedroom homes and apartments.
The site has long been described as an eyesore by local residents and community groups, with campaigners welcoming plans to bring the vacant land back into use.
However, before construction can begin, developers must secure approval for a range of planning conditions designed to ensure the site is safe and suitable for development.
Documents submitted to Kirklees Council show Westshield has applied to discharge 20 separate planning conditions covering flooding, drainage, contamination, road layouts, environmental impacts and construction management.
A significant number of the requirements relate to flood risk and water management. Milnsbridge sits within the Colne Valley, and the proposed development site is located close to the River Colne. Developers were required to demonstrate that the new housing scheme would not increase flood risk in the area.
As part of the process, an inspection was also required of the underground culvert that carries water towards Longwood Brook to ensure it remains structurally sound and capable of handling water flows.
Previous attempts to inspect the culvert were delayed after water levels were reported to be above waist height, preventing engineers from safely entering the structure. A full drainage strategy was later submitted and forms part of the latest discharge of conditions application lodged with the council.
Other conditions address potential land contamination, environmental protections during construction, highway arrangements and the design and structural safety of the proposed homes.
Council planning officers will now review the submitted information before deciding whether the conditions can be formally discharged.
If approved, the decision would remove a major hurdle for the development and allow work to move closer to starting on site.
