The number of objections submitted by the local community over a proposed new housing development on the outskirts of the town has attracted one of the highest number of objections seen in decades....
30th December 2024
Plans to build 371 homes on land north of the A689 in Wynyard Village has reportedly sparked fierce opposition, with over 700 objections already said to have been submitted by the local community. In June 2024, Low Swainston Developments Ltd submitted an outline planning application for the construction of up to 371 homes, along with 1,100 sqm of retail and medical facilities, on the outskirts of Hartlepool. However, the proposals faced significant backlash, with objections flooding in from local residents, the parish council, and even Stockton Borough Council.
Concerns range from over-development to accusations that Hartlepool Borough Council is once again disregarding the voices of residents. The development proposal has also drawn criticism from nearby Stockton Borough Council, where its claimed the plans exceed the boundaries of the area's original masterplan.
Record-High Objections: A Community United
Documents submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council reveal that the proposed development has triggered what could be one of the highest number of recorded objections for a local planning application seen in decades, with it being said that over 700 residents have now voiced their concerns over the plans, with many citing fears of the potential further strain on the local infrastructure & road networks, and others claiming Hartlepool Borough Council is prioritising housing targets over the well-being of the community.
The parish council onto which the plans relate to has also reportedly weighed in, echoing similar concerns about the scale of the project and its potential impact on the village's character. They warn that unchecked development could "overrun" Wynyard, fundamentally altering the area's unique charm and livability.
Stockton Borough Council Adds to the Criticism
Stockton Borough Council has also joined the chorus of dissent, stating that the proposed development deviates significantly from Wynyard's agreed master-plan. Planning officials from Stockton are said to have flagged concerns about the scale of the project and its potential to undermine the original vision for the area.
There's already talk of a potential breakaway from HBC if the plans are approved !
In May 2021, four of the towns outlying parish councils submitted a vote of no confidence in Hartlepool Borough Council, following whats claimed to have been years of frustration with the local council over planning applications being approved in the towns outlying villages in what was claimed to have been blatant dismissals of genuine locals concerns over the scale of the housing developments being approved.
It nearly led to the parish councils breaking away from HBC to potentially join Durham County Council, however its claimed at the time that officers for DCC refused to comment on the matter.
The criticism of the latest housing application is said to once again highlight a broader issue regarding the ever 'strained' relationship between Hartlepool Borough Council local parish councils. If the plans proceed, its claimed they could fuel fresh calls for Hartlepool's outlying village parish councils to finally break away from Hartlepool Borough Council’s jurisdiction altogether.
A Delayed Decision
Initially pencilled in for a decision in August, the planning application has been delayed due to the sheer volume of objections. Hartlepool Borough Council’s planning officers are reportedly overwhelmed by the response, pushing the decision into the new year.
For the Labour-dominated council, this proposal represents one of its most contentious challenges yet. With mounting public pressure and growing dissatisfaction among parish councils, the outcome of this planning application could have lasting implications for the council's reputation and authority
What’s Next?
As locals wait for a final decision that's likely to come sometime in 2025, it’s clear this development has ignited a broader debate about housing, local governance, and community priorities.
Will Hartlepool Borough Council listen to the overwhelming public outcry, or will it push forward despite the deluge of objections?
One thing's for certain: the future of Wynyard Village being part of Hartlepool Borough Council is likely to hang in the balance.