DM/25/01782/OUT – Demolition of existing launderette and dog grooming parlour and construction of proposed supported living and extra care housing with communal facilities, adjoining warden’s house and associated works.
Address: 64A Proudfoot Drive Bishop Auckland DL14 6QT
26/09/2025 – Bishop Auckland Town Council objected to this planning application.
Bishop Auckland Town Council has reviewed the outline application for the redevelopment of 64A Proudfoot Drive. The proposal involves the demolition of existing commercial units and the construction of supported living and extra care housing with communal facilities and associated works.
While the Council supports the principle of increasing supported living provision, this must not come at the expense of essential community services or without proper consideration of local infrastructure and amenity. The Council therefore objects to the application in its current form and requests that these concerns be addressed before any approval is granted.
Bishop Auckland Town Council objects to the above application on the following material planning grounds:
- Loss of Key Community Services – The proposal involves the demolition of two long-standing local businesses-a launderette and a dog grooming parlour. These services are valued by residents, particularly those without access to private laundry facilities or transport. Their removal would reduce local service provision and negatively impact community wellbeing, especially for older and vulnerable residents.
- Inadequate Justification for Change of Use – While the Council recognises the need for supported living and extra care housing, the application does not sufficiently justify the loss of existing commercial uses or demonstrate that alternative sites have been considered. Nor does it offer any mitigation for the loss of these services.
- Impact on Residential Amenity – The proposed development is significantly larger in scale than the existing buildings and may adversely affect neighbouring properties through:
- Overlooking and loss of privacy – Increased noise and activity from staff, visitors, and communal facilities
- Potential overshadowing due to massing and height
4. Highways and Access Concerns – Proudfoot Drive is a residential area with limited road capacity. The Council is concerned about:
- Increased traffic from care staff, visitors, and service vehicles
- Insufficient parking provision
- Potential obstruction for emergency services
- A full traffic impact assessment should be required before determination.
5. Design and Integration – The outline nature of the application provides limited detail on design, materials, and landscaping. The Council requests that any future reserved matters ensure:
- High-quality, sympathetic design – Adequate green space and communal areas
- Accessibility for residents with mobility needs
6. Sustainability and Drainage – The application lacks detail on energy efficiency, drainage, and climate resilience. The Council expects:
- Sustainable construction methods
- Renewable energy integration
- Robust surface water management
To view and make comment on this application, visit the Durham County Council’s Planning Portal.
The consultation expiry date for comments is 18th November 2025.