Block of 100pc affordable flats likened to ‘Strangeways’ given approval despite neighbours' objections

Plans to build a three-storey block of affordable flats which was likened to Strangeways prison have been given the green light despite neighbours’ concerns.

A developer had applied to Oldham council to construct the apartments on land which had been the site of the Former High Barn Resource Centre in Royton, which was demolished in 2018.

Under the plans by Lancet Homes, there would be 30 flats as part of the affordable housing scheme, to be managed by First Choice Homes Oldham.

There would be 30 parking spaces provided on the site off High Barn Street for residents.

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Recommending approval, case officer Matthew Taylor told a planning meeting that access had been moved onto Shaw Street rather than High Barn Street.

“I can confirm that the accommodation that is being provided meets the national housing space standards,” he added.

According to the committee report there had been two objections lodged, however on the planning portal there were 12 objections and one supporting comment.

An objector, Geoff Oliver, spoke on behalf of nearby residential development Spindle Court, made up of a series of bungalows for elderly people.

He said they fear the apartment block will ‘tower’ over them. “It would be the highest structure around,” Mr Oliver added.

“Its basic appearance is also of concern. Its slab-like construction with bars across the Juliet balconies makes us wonder if this building is an annexe of Strangeways.

“The bars give a cell-like appearance across each balcony.”

He said the building would reduce the amount of light coming into Spindle Court during the winter, and raised concerns that a number of new developments in Royton would increase