A former Whitley Bay nightlife hotspot is set to transformed into flats after plans were given the go-ahead.
42nd Street has been dubbed an "eyesore" with the site now set to be turned into into 19 two-bedroom apartments.
North Eastern Holdings Ltd's proposals generated 26 objections during a public consultation. Complaints varied from the “overbearing” and “ugly” nature of the development to parking and highway worries.
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One resident wrote: “The design of the block is brutal and ugly and does not fit in well with the surrounding landscape.”
Another resident went so far as to say the design is “totally unacceptable”.
Planning officers told councillors the design of the proposed block had been subject to extensive redesigns since its original application for 22 flats. Officers said the amended plans were more “cohesive” and are not “competing” with the former Rex Hotel opposite.
With regards to surrounding parking, the council’s report on the development stated: “The site will be accessed via North Parade and an appropriate level of parking will be provided."
The application was permitted subject to additional financial agreements made between the council and the developer. The developer is now expected to pay £4,095 for habitat creation and management.
A further £13,300 has been earmarked to support the local authority to fund a children’s equipped play site.
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Whitley Bay councillor John O’Shea said: “I am happy with the decision. It gets rid of an eyesore on the seafront and the section 106 payments will enhance local facilities in Whitley Bay."
Michael Hepburn, senior director at Lichfields, which acted as North Eastern Holdings' agent during the application process, said: “We are definitely happy with the decision and pleased to see the support from the planning committee as well as the officers. Hopefully, it means the regeneration of a prominent site on the seafront.”
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