New homes set for Dinnington

Plans have been submitted to Rotherham Council to build 75 new homes on the former school site off East Street. Westleigh Developments and Arches Housing, who are behind the plans, say that if the proposals get the go-ahead then work could begin on site this spring. They want to build 71 houses and four bungalows -which will include a portion of affordable housing - as well as access roads, open space and landscaping. The plans have been welcomed in the community, with one residents saying it was good to see the derelict land being built on. The land was once home to a primary school, playing field and 26 homes. The school was demolished several years ago and the new Dinnington Community Primary was built. Ian Jones, business development director at Westleigh Developments said if planning permission was granted then the first homes would be built by the autumn. He said: “We have submitted an application to Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council to build a total of 75 new affordable and private sale homes on land formerly occupied by a school, its playing field and 26 terraced houses off East Street in Dinnington.” “This comprises 71 two, three and four-bedroom homes and four two-bedroom bungalows.” “If approved we expect work to begin this spring, with the first homes due for completion in the autumn.” “The development will also provide a number of training and employment opportunities, providing a positive boost to the local economy.” Dinnington Comprehensive headteacher Paul Blackwell, who school is close to the site, said it was good to see the piece of land being put to use again. “It’s really positive and will bring new families to the area,” he said. “Hopefully that as part of the building they will look at the whole roads programme and improve the general access for cars.” “The land is a general dumping grounds at the moment and doesn’t do much for the local community.” “Building a number of houses will give the community a boost and show that Dinnington is moving forward.” Gill Alton, chief executive and principal of Rotherham College of Arts and Technology, which is also situated close to the site, said: “The new building investment is good news for Dinnington, for the public and for the college, especially as it meets the local housing needs in the area.” “With support from the local community, the development will contribute towards making Dinnington a growing, popular and sustainable town for the future.” “As a major construction training provider in Dinnington, we’d be delighted to support any apprenticeship opportunities that were created as part of the project.” One local resident, who did not wish to be named, said: “It’s great that something is finally happening on that piece of land.” “It’s been empty for a long time and is a bit of an eyesore at the moment.” According to the planning papers the consultation period will last until 28th February. A decision is expected on the proposals by 8th May.