Client

Vico Homes

Local Authority

Wakefield Council

Project Description

Affordable Residential

DPP have been successful in securing planning permission for a new apartment building on behalf of Vico Homes (formerly Wakefield District Housing) to provide 23 much needed affordable units in the heart of Pontefract.

The proposals are part of the wider regeneration of the Horsefair flats complex which was built in the 1960s. On the corner of Broad Lane and Horsefair, Warren House is the most prominent and closest to Pontefract Castle. DPP therefore had to liaise closely with both heritage and design officers at Wakefield Council to ensure an appropriate design and layout was proposed. This liaison started early at pre-application stage and continued through the full planning process.

A further constraint to the site was the limited size, shape and local topography which resulted in a building that steps down the hillside with a feature at the northern and highest end. The latter was important to ensure an element of active frontage in this key location. Balancing these constraints against the need to provide parking and as much biodiversity net gain on-site as possible meant a balancing act; one that DPP were successful in arguing based on the benefits of the proposal in the planning balance.

DPP also carried out a public consultation event, including the posting of leaflets to neighbouring residents and stakeholders, the hosting of a website, and a face to face event where the public could view the proposals. On behalf of Vico Homes, DPP also presented the scheme at planning committee, receiving a unanimous approval.