(Image: LCC planning documents)
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The demolition of a century-old parade of shops and flats has been approved by Leeds City Council.
The approval relates to the demolition of properties at 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 22 Weston Lane, a Neo-Georgian style parade in Otley built in 1924 that currently contains shops with flats above.
Planning officers described the building as a non-designated heritage asset with local architectural interest, noting that it retains a number of original features and makes a positive contribution to the character of the area.
The proposal attracted objections from local residents, who argued that demolishing the building would be unsustainable, could affect businesses and residents, and would result in the loss of a landmark building that has formed part of the estate's character for more than 100 years.
Leeds Civic Trust also called for the building to receive greater protection because of its heritage and community value.
Otley and Yeadon Liberal Democrat ward councillors, Councillor Sandy Lay and Councillor Colin Campbell, also submitted concerns that the applicant failed to state what the purpose of the demolition is, and that there is no future use proposed.
The parade of shops and flats at Weston Lane, Otley (Image: Google maps)
However, planning officers concluded that the application met the requirements of the prior approval process, which only allows the council to consider issues such as the method of demolition, highway impacts, site restoration and environmental effects.
Highways officers raised no objections, while measures have been proposed to manage traffic, noise, dust and vibration during the works.
The approved demolition will include asbestos removal, internal strip-out and the mechanical demolition of the buildings, with materials segregated and recycled where possible.
Demolition traffic will be routed via Weston Lane and controlled by trained banksmen.
Following clearance, the site will be levelled, topsoiled and seeded, creating a grassed area while retaining existing trees.
In their report, planning officers acknowledged the heritage value of the building, stating: "The building is a Non-Designated Heritage Asset which should be retained."
However, they concluded that under the limited matters that can be considered through the demolition prior approval process, the proposal was acceptable and approval could be granted.
The approval is subject to a series of conditions, including restrictions on working hours, dust suppression measures, noise and vibration monitoring, highway safety controls, tree protection and the safe removal of asbestos.
Planning officers also noted that any future redevelopment of the site would need to provide a building of equal heritage value.