Farding Square: Plans to build 62 homes on former South Shields council housing site by Sunderland developer Gentoo Homes

In 2018, council bosses backed plans to sell land for residential development at Farding Square in the Whitburn and Marsden ward.

Demolition of the flats on the site previously started in 2016 to make way for modern housing.

On Tuesday January 28, new plans from Gentoo Homes could be given the go-ahead by South Tyneside Council’s Planning Committee.

If approved, the site would be transformed into a mixture of semi-detached, detached and terraced units, with 19 two bed, 33 three bed and 10 four bed homes up for grabs.

This includes six affordable homes with two for affordable rent and four at 80% of open market rate.

During consultation, the plans sparked opposition from several neighbours on Prince Edward Road and Lizard Lane.

Concerns included parking, traffic and access for vehicles, loss of of open space, construction work disruption, the layout of the estate and highway safety.

Despite amendments to the plans, including changes to proposed lay-by parking at the rear of Prince Edward Road, many continued to object.

Several residents are expected to speak against the plans at the upcoming planning hearing to decide the application.

Although the proposals are recommended for approval by council planning officers, the final decision rests with councillors.

Gentoo is expected to pay funds to the council to reduce the impact of the new homes, subject to the plans being approved.

The ‘section 106 agreement’ includes £160,000 towards open space or a new pocket park / play area on land between Prince Edward Road and Prince Edward Grove.

If this is not possible, the funds would be channelled towards improvements to open space and/or an extra children’s play facility at Cornthwaite Park in Whitburn.

Other contributions include works to reduce impact on coastal protection areas and nature reserves and travel cards for future residents.

The planning meeting starts at 2pm at South Shields Town Hall and is open to the public.