Hartlepool Life reported in April that plans to build 475 properties on land to the north of Elwick Road and south of Worset Lane had finally been approved – despite dozens of objections from nearby residents.
Now, local authority chiefs have confirmed that a review is taking place over the decision by the Secretary of State.
A Hartlepool Council spokesperson said: “We can confirm that we are in receipt of a letter from the office of the Secretary of State regarding the planning application, which they are entitled to do on any application.
“This communication has been acknowledged by the council. At this stage, the Secretary of State has not made any decision and is just reviewing the application, so we will await further correspondence,” reported the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Some 26 objections had previously been submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council from residents raising concerns over the proposals.
Worries were voiced around “inadequate” road infrastructure, congestion, noise and traffic, impact on countryside, trees, fields and wildlife, and the lack of demand for the properties.
The application went before the local authority’s planning committee in April for a final verdict after councillors had previously twice deferred making a decision.
The panel decided by majority vote to approve the application, which was in line with recommendations from planning officers.
Author: Ian
Reporter and author of Pop Life, covering all things news, music and local events.
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