Homes to be built on 'eyesore' site of demolished school

The plans were approved unanimously

A new housing estate is to be built on the "eyesore" site of a school that was demolished 20 years ago.

Councillors have approved plans for 45 bungalows on land formerly home to Parkway School in Chapel Park, Newcastle

The site has been empty ever since the school was torn down in 2004.

The redevelopment scheme was supported despite previous concerns about surrounding roads infrastructure.

The site is located to the north of Hillhead Parkway and to the west of Hillhead Road.

'Generally welcomed'

According to developer Keepmoat Homes, the bungalows will be accessible and "attractive to individuals over 55 years of age".

The properties would also "seek to reduce energy use and maximise carbon neutral heat", the planning application said.

West Fenham ward councillor PJ Morrissey said: "This site has sat as an eyesore for approximately 20 years. It is very accessible, easy to get to and easy to get away from. It should be a very welcome thing for people in that area."

Labour’s Paula Maines said the estate was "very green and lovely", and could also offer accommodation for families of children with disabilities.

Liberal Democrat Henry Gallagher added it looked like "a good use of space in the area" and it seemed to be "generally welcomed" by the local community.

Chapel ward councillor Marc Donnelly, while supportive of the scheme, had previously raised concerns about a lack of infrastructure in the outer west of the city to cope with increasing development.

After Keepmoat’s plans were lodged earlier this year, the independent councillor pleaded with city officials to instigate the building of new roads, shops and medical facilities, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.