Plans to convert Normanton office building into flats withdrawn after objections
Plans to convert an office building in Normanton into four flats have been withdrawn following a public consultation process on the application.
The scheme was related to 9 to 11 Castleford Road and proposed the change of use from offices into four residential flats with associated parking.
The application attracted a range of public comments before being formally withdrawn, with concerns focused primarily on traffic, road safety and parking in the area.
A total of 11 consultation responses were submitted to Wakefield Council, including 10 objections and one supporting comment.
Several residents raised concerns about road safety and congestion on Castleford Road.
One objector said: “The road out side of the premises is near a busy junction that has had a number of accidents.”
Concerns were also raised about visibility and access from the site onto the main road.
Another comment stated: “This is a dangerous road as it is, multiple accidents have happened on this road due to traffic and being a busy route for pedestrian traffic and limited visabily due to people parking on the road.”
Other residents referenced wider concerns about congestion and the impact of additional development on Castleford Road.
One comment said: “Castleford Road has had loads of fatalities and accidents, its congested and has poor visibility with a major crossroads juction a few hundred yards away.”
Broader concerns were also raised about pressure on local services and infrastructure in Normanton.
One objector wrote: “We don't even have a proper supermarket. No banks etc, doctors your waiting days or weeks to be seen. We are already in the process of having multiple new houses been built at the moment.”
The comment in support of the application said: “The proposed development aligns with local policies/plans and will have a positive impact and improve the local area by converting offices into much needed housing in the area.”
It added: “Urban areas are under the greatest pressure to provide new housing and this application will help local people find an area they want to live.”
The application has now been withdrawn. No reason has been given in the public planning record.