By Ian Duncan

Last updated at 12:23, Saturday, 09 March 2013

Plans have been approved to build nearly 100 new homes on the site of a former military base.

Members of Carlisle City Council’s Development Control Committee have given outline permission for new properties at Hadrian’s Camp at Houghton Road on the edge of Carlisle.

Further approval will be needed when more detailed plans are later submitted.

The all-clear was given despite concerns about traces of asbestos on the site from its days as a military training base.

Councillor James Bainbridge, who represents the Stanwix Rural ward, said that it would add a further 20 per cent to the size of Houghton and the development would add extra traffic volume to Houghton Road.

He said: “Let’s make sure we get this right so that past mistakes are not repeated.”

A spokesman for the agents, Taylor and Hardy, said the development would enhance the rural community and add to a decent supply of housing for the area.

But Councillor Ray Bloxham, who was sent to a similar base during his two years’ National Service, said he was concerned about the asbestos. He said: “We need to make absolutely sure we monitor it and remove it.”

He added that if there was any asbestos left it could contaminate a nearby beck and the area was a habitat for wildlife.

Councillor Willie Whalen said he had seen first-hand the effects of asbestos on people’s health, adding: “I’ve never agreed with the Health and Safety Executive who keep telling us to leave asbestos alone because it’s perfectly safe. I don’t believe that for one minute.

“We should do everything possible to make sure it is dealt with properly. I’d feel easier if this development went ahead rather than leaving the asbestos alone. I will support this development on the understanding that we will be watching it.”

A representative from Stanwix Rural parish council said a 96 unit housing estate was being proposed at a wildlife site and the local school was already oversubscribed.

Councillor Doreen Parsons questioned the matter of affordable housing at the site and added: “It’s suggested that the developer might involve a registered social landlord to provide units at affordable rents because people just can’t afford to buy now because they have to get a deposit.”

And Councillor Hugh McDevitt said that human beings needed homes as well as wildlife but added that developments also needed other amenities provided such as increased school provision.

He said: “Bussing kids away to school is a link loss for the village – and it doesn’t have that many links to start with.”

First published at 11:13, Saturday, 09 March 2013
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk