Plans submitted for former school housing project

Plans have been submitted for a major housing project on the site of a former middle school in Newcastle.Devised by Gentoo Homes, the plans involve the construction of 102 houses located approximately four miles to the north west of Newcastle City Centre in the predominantly residential area of Chapel Park/Chapel House and on land that was formerly occupied by Chapel House Middle School.The proposal comprises of units ranging from two to five bedrooms in size, with 15 per cent of them being allocated for affordable housing. A minimum of 2 off-street parking spaces are included for each dwelling, along with 25 visitor parking spaces and enhanced cycling and pedestrian facilities.Measuring approximately 12-acres, the application site was cleared out in 2007 and now comprises open grassland, which is surrounded by a perimeter fence restricting access.Additionally, it is bound by existing residential development on four sides with the exception of some existing areas of open space lying adjacent to the northern and southern boundary of the site.Vehicle access will be via a new connection with Granville Drive at the south east corner of the site, with the plans also involving the retention of existing trees and hedges, as well as additional shrub, tree and hedgerow planting.