By Locals object to ‘monstrous’ new development
A widely rejected ‘Grand Designs-type’ house in Healing with indoor and outdoor swimming, pools, a bar, and even a cinema room will not go forward after frustrated councillors.
North East Lincolnshire’s planning committee almost unanimously rejected the proposed low-carbon designed home.
The councillors cited it as “futuristic” and were viewed as simply inappropriate in the suggested location, with a prominent issue being its proximity to an adjacent churchyard.
One councillor described it as a “monstrous carbuncle”, while another even said regarding ‘kids in Speedos’ in the outdoor pool metres away from where a funeral service could be taking place. The architect was unable to sway the committee.
The property was set for green belt land, with locals saying it would be out of place, due to its detached, two storeys high three-bedroom premises.
Balconies were proposed to the rear as well as indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a cinema room, bar, two courtyards, the creation of new vehicular access, and a pond.
The objections raised included instances such as ‘not in keeping with the area’, and concerns over its ‘ultra-modern’ design. Traffic concerns were also cited, as residents and councillors spoke of Stallingborough Road being ‘already busy’.
A church spokesman also added that the churchyard is quickly becoming full with graves, adding that Church Wardens had already approached the owner of the site for purchase, to add additional graves.
Ettridge Architecture’s design aimed to create a “high-quality, contemporary, low-carbon building fit for 21st Century family living”.
Residents and Healing Parish Council had raised various objections to the plans.
“The house / mansion is of a very modern design and doesn’t complement the area at all,” said church warden Kevin Onn in his objection, highlighting the nearby Grade 2 listed St Peter and Paul Church and churchyard.
Elizabeth Scott objected saying: “Why on earth would a homeowner want a home with two swimming pools?” The parish council felt the building was “admirable and well-designed” but simply in the wrong location.
“The church is actually very hard to see, even on a good day,” said architect David Ettridge,
“Our real design ethos was to be more or less invisible.” He said.
Conservative Cllr David Hasthorpe, said “Nothing complimentary has been said about the development,” he said. It was a “total disrespect” to potential users of the churchyard.
Labour Cllr Tim Mickleburgh called the proposed modern design a “monstrous carbuncle”.
“I think it has been demonstrated there’s a huge public outcry over this,” added Cllr Ian Lindsey.
(Image: Ettridge/ NELC)
