Conservationists slam new plans for flats

The site contains three ponds within a woodland and was managed as a community wildlife garden up until 1996, but has since fallen into a state of neglect.

Now, plans have been submitted to Sheffield Council to built 12 two-bedroomed flats in three four-storey blocks there.

A previous planning application to built six flats in three blocks was refused four years ago on the grounds of the loss of green space, but that decision was later overturned on appeal. Planning permission runs out in September this year, so the applicant has now submitted revised plans.

This latest application has been recommended for approval by Sheffield Council at a meeting next Monday, August 13.

Objections to the latest plans have come from groups including the Dore Village Society and the Dore Conservation Group, citing concerns such as the loss of trees and garden, “noise and privacy issues” and damage to the “landscape character.”

Abbeydale Sports Club, meanwhile, says the new flats would “disturb major playing field areas around the site and cause damage and drainage issues from the playing fields.”

Ward councillor Colin Ross has described the plans as a “gross overdevelopment” and says the “level of development would impact on the character of the area and not protect the distinctive landscape.”

However, city planners say the “proposals reflect the principles established in the previous appeal decision and comply with relevant planning policies”, so should therefore be granted.

Next Monday’s meeting takes place at Sheffield Town Hall.