Flats scheme decision overturned

5:41pm Sunday 11th May 2008

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PICKERING'S former Castle Cinema is set to be converted into flats after a Government planning inspector's decision to overturn a ruling made by Ryedale District Council.

George Arrowsmith, of the Planning Inspectorate, has given the green light for nine flats in two blocks to be built on the site in Burgate, after RDC's planning committee overturned officers' recommendations and rejected the scheme.

Mr Arrowsmith said the main issue was whether the scheme, put forward by City Developments, would "unacceptably detract" from the amenity of nearby residents by causing a significant increase in on-street parking.

He said the proposed flats would be modest in size and close to the town centre and public transport services.

"I am satisfied that the development would generate less demand for parking than one for a similar number of family houses in a more outlying location," said Mr Arrowsmith.

He said it was Government policy to reduce parking areas to make car usage less attractive in comparison to travel by public transport. The re-development of the site of the cinema, which closed some time ago, would not cause conflict with neighbours if there was no parking.