Renewed bid to build holiday apartments at historic Calderdale mill

Calderdale Council planning officers are recommending David Fletcher’s plans to build a first floor extension at Hebble End Mill, Hebble End, Hebden Bridge, to create the holiday lets are approved.

Last year the plans were turned down because of the impact on two neighbouring residential properties but briefing papers to councillors, who will consider the application again when the council holds its first Planning Committee since lockdown because of the coronavirus crisis, say they will not now be affected.

The committee will meet in virtual form from 2pm on Tuesday, June 16, via the council’s YouTube channel, with provision now available for people to controbute to the debate using technology or through written responses which will be read out by planning officers.

Two letters of objection and one neutral letter have been received to the latest application, which is still being opposed by Hebden Royd Town Council.

The objections argue the scheme will not benefit residents, is not needed, will over-develop a landlocked site and will disturb neighbours’ peace while the council are concerned about the accuracy of some elements of the plans.

But the report says the plans, which allow for 15 retail units to remain on the ground floor and nine apartments to be built at first floor level, this time propose no change to the elevation which most concerned councillors previously because of the proximity to two homes.

The relationship between the two buildings will stay the same as it is now, they say.

Although council conservation officers have some reservations, the application is supported by tourism officers who think the mill is a good location for holiday accommodation.

Officers say in the briefing papers: “As the proposal would secure a future viable use for the mill, which would also support the tourism offer in Hebden Bridge and the local economy, it is considered this carries significant weight.

“The less than substantial harm is therefore outweighed by the public benefits of the proposal.”

When the application last came before the committee Mr Fletcher told councillors the holiday lets would generate income that would allow the mill’s traditional northlight roof to be renewed.