Modifications to a planning approval could allow occupants to move into new properties at a Halifax development ahead of schedule.
Planners at Calderdale Council have approved an application from Newett Homes to alter one of the conditions attached to the approved 35-dwelling scheme on land opposite Park Lane in Siddal.
The residential project is situated adjacent to Siddal Cricket Club.
According to planning documentation, the request involves a non-material amendment to a condition that currently prevents occupancy until most landscape works have been finished.
In their submission, Newett Homes stated that the amendment would enable people to move into much-needed affordable homes without compromising the site’s landscaping requirements.
The developer confirmed that an agreement has been reached with the council regarding the proposed change.
Planning officers observed that the existing condition mandates that substantial landscaping works and related biodiversity monitoring must be operational prior to anyone moving into the first property.
According to the applicant’s reasoning, this requirement is difficult to implement because landscaping installed while building work continues could suffer damage and fail to establish properly.
The proposed modification would permit residents to occupy homes, including those designated as affordable housing, before meeting the current landscaping threshold.
Under the revised approach, the majority of landscaping would need to be completed before the 25th property is occupied rather than before any occupation takes place, while still guaranteeing that landscaping and biodiversity improvements are delivered in full.