A council decision to refuse a controversial plan to convert an old Middleton nursing home into student accommodation has been appealed.
A council decision to refuse a controversial plan to convert an old Middleton nursing home into student accommodation has been appealed.
Rochdale town hall’s planning committee rejected the proposed conversion of the former Briarmede Care Home in June. Developers Al-Sadiq Academy wanted to create 11 en-suite bedrooms and two studio flats on the Rochdale Road site.
Following the refusal, Al-Sadiq Academy has asked the Planning Inspectorate to review the decision.
The developer says the common area in their proposal would be perfect for students – with dining hall/games room; studies; kitchens; computer rooms; changing facilities; and a library included.
But 400 objectors to the scheme claimed the plan was a ‘backdoor’ method of getting their original proposal of a mosque and wedding venue. That claim has repeatedly been denied by Al-Sadiq Academy.
Objectors’ suspicions were shared by members of the planning committee, who voted to refuse the scheme on Thursday, June 4.
“Not many people believe this will end up as student accommodation,” Coun Tom Besford said. “This is why people don’t have faith in the planning process because this is written in scope to make it difficult for us to refuse.
“But we may as well say ‘I’m going to set up a unicorn farm’ as long as it meets protocols. I just think there is a lack of evidence to support the need for student accommodation.”
At the town hall meeting, former councillor Keeley O’Mara said residents accept the site needs redevelopment, but would prefer another care home or something similar in character.
An agent speaking for Al-Sadiq Academy told the committee there was no plan for a mosque, as per a previous application. He described the ‘exclusive’ rooms as a ‘fantastic opportunity’ for students at a cheaper rate than would be offered to those studying in Manchester.
Ultimately the planning committee decided to refuse the scheme on the grounds that the change of use from a nursing home to student accommodation would impact on the character of the area and because the housing simply wasn’t needed.
That decision will now be looked at by the Planning Inspectorate, whose decision on the matter is final.
Roch Valley Radio presenter Ian Foran appointed Rochdale AFC Sports College head coach
93-year-old former police officer returns to Rochdale station
Burnley man banned from keeping animals after dog found emaciated in Rochdale home
OMD play first Rochdale show to sold-out Town Hall Square crowd
Mayor Faisal Rana reflects on busy start to mayoral year
Rochdale Feel Good Festival brings packed day of live music to Town Hall Square
Roch Valley Radio returns as official media partner for Glaston-BURY
‘We just want to be treated equally’ Wheelchair users hit out over OMD concert access
Police believe huge fire on Bury New Road was started deliberately
Rapist who posed as good samaritan before attacking woman jailed for eight years
Bury man sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum of 18 years for murder
Bury North receives new mental health investment
Comments
Add a comment