Rotherham Council flouts own rules to allow flats branded as 'abominations'

Thousands of residents took part in consultations before the document — a framework for deciding applications — was approved last year.

And residents have had to accept the loss of prized green belt, which has been quickly snapped up by developers for hundreds of homes.

But Rotherham Council decided its own plans for 34 flats surrounding Wellgate Old Hall did not need to adhere to its Local Plan guidelines saying new development should not encroach forward of the grade II-listed building’s rear elevation.

The planning board voted in favour of the blocks either side, which have been called “abominations” by hall owner Maurice Healy.

He pleaded with councillors to stick to their own rules — adding: “It’s your duty to reject this proposal and place the development line behind the old hall.

“I consider myself the custodian of part of the history of Rotherham. You have admitted yourself that in your Local Plan you recommend that a line to the rear of Wellgate Old Hall be established.

“Here you are prepared to ignore your own recommendation and obscure this very prominent building.”

Chris Wilkins, RMBC senior development officer, said he would give councillors a “history lesson” and showed 1930s photos in which buildings to the side of the hall were further forward.

He admitted the apartment blocks — to be backed by a row of 20 houses — looked “utilitarian” but said they would be uplifted by design features.

Mr Wilkins said: “While the current scheme shows the apartments not set back as far as the rear elevation, due to the splayed nature of the site, Wellgate Old Hall will not be significantly obscured.”

Members felt populating the town outweighed concerns about the design or obscuring the old hall.

Cllr Mick Elliott said: “Redevelopment of this site is long overdue. However I do have reservations about the design. It looks more like a school.”

The funding was approved by full council on Wednesday, when opposition member Cllr Brian Cutts said: “Effectively we are just blotting out Rotherham’s history again. Is this now the general practice?”

The plan was one of three totalling 171 properties passed yesterday (31) for the council, with building also to take place on Westgate and the Sheffield Road car park.

RMBC housing development co-ordinator David Mason said: “This will demonstrate the appetite for town centre living and kickstart the residential regeneration of the town centre.”

He also admitted that RMBC had considered placing the Wellgate flats even further forward compared to the old hall.