Plans to demolish homeless hostel

Kirklees Council has submitted an application to knock down hostel buildings at the site of The Combs Accommodation Scheme in Thornhill, Dewsbury, which is no longer in use.

A report to the Planning Sub-Committee (Heavy Woollen) on Thursday, January 21 recommended the plans for approval subject to reserved matters being agreed.

The committee also visited the proposed brownfield site, off Hall Lane, on the morning of the meeting.

The report said: “This application has been assessed against relevant policies in the development plan and other material considerations. It is considered that the development would constitute sustainable development and is therefore recommended for approval.”

The application has received one letter of support from Thornhill Cricket and Bowling Club, which is adjacent to the site, and a total of 18 objections have been lodged against the plans.

Concerns raised by objectors included the potential of increased crime, traffic and that new homes at the location would be an eyesore.

Originally 30 dwellings were proposed to built be built at the development, but after concerns were raised during the application process the number of homes has now been omitted.

Planners were concerned because the initial proposal failed to demonstrate that land to the west of the existing building would be safeguarded.

The report said: “The proposed layout on the indicative plan was considered to be too dense and unreflective of the character and identity of the local built environment. Furthermore, the site is opposite the boundary to the Thornhill Conservation Area and the Thornhill Moat Ancient Monument and the development of the site will affect the setting of both designations.”

The site, which also has outdoor sports facilities, was originally Combs Hill School until an application was approved in 1991 to change its use into temporary accommodation for the homeless.

Part of the school was converted the following year into housing units.