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Friday, November 21, 2008, 08:02
The planning application put forward for the former Anzio Camp at Blackshaw Moor by Courtyard Properties and Smartwright Development included 75 properties where people could live independently, 125 serviced apartments and cottages, and a 50-bed care home.
The plans also involved a sports hall, community room and shop, along with a possible GP and dental care facilities built on the site.
But councillors opposed the project on the grounds that the site was too isolated and 250 properties was too many.
Councillor Mike Worthington said: "This is the gateway to the Peak District. It is an unsuitable site and there is no evidence of a need.
"There are so many things wrong and so many things missing.
"Also there are no amenities in the area."
Councillor Stephen Ellis said: "Two hundred and fifty properties is a significant development on this site.
"I also have concerns how the care package would work.
"This site has to be developed to the highest standards.
"A new application needs to come forward."
Councillor John Fisher said that there was a great need for extra care, but it was needed in the towns.
He said: "This is not sustainable. Three hundred car journeys could be made on this road.
"We have got to resist this as 250 houses are too much.
"This would urbanise this sensitive area. Sites like this are at a premium."
Councillor Margaret Lovatt said that some of the substantial buildings on the site should be used in redevelopment of the area.
She said: "A more modest application is needed.
"There are some very substantial buildings on the site which need to be reused."
Councillor Hilary Corby said "I could not think of anything worse than be put out to Blackshaw Moor.
"People are living longer, so they want to enjoy themselves and they also want facilities."
Councillor Sheila Edwards raised concerns and called for another use for the site.
Councillor Jason Hails said it could be a great opportunity missed as there was a need for this kind of development in the Moorlands.
He said: "I would, however, like to see some of the present buildings being reused. A crossing would also be required and the area speed limit reduced to 40mph."
Councillor Jim Davies said: "This is a Special Landscape Area.
"This scheme only uses three of the present buildings. I would like more reused."
Planning officer Jane Curley said the site was in an unsustainable location and a sensitive part of the district.
Jonathan Wainwright, of Smartwright Development, said he was confident the requirements of planning officers and councillors could be satisfied.
He added: "Something has got to happen with this site and we are working with the district council on this big project.
"There was some positive notes out of the meeting and we welcome the continuing dialogue.
"The care village would be become a fantastic place with beautiful facilities and a lot of activities. It would also be a big plus for the local community.
"We hope to have another plan ready to be submitted in the new year."
The Anzio camp Blackshaw Moor.
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