Housing scheme proposed for Harrogate

Plans have been submitted for a new residential development of almost 100 homes on a nine-acre plot of land in Harrogate, close to the Yorkshire Showgrounds.Acting on behalf of Harrogate College, Bilfinger GVA is seeking outline permission to develop up to 89 properties and full approval for a new all-weather sports pitch for the college and community use.Located within a well-established residential area on the edge of the town centre, the proposed development site is on the corner of Hornbeam Park Avenue and Hookstone Road, close to Hornbeam Business Park.The land is owned by Harrogate College, which is situated directly to the south, but surplus to its requirements.In plans drawn up by Seven Architecture, the scheme proposes a two-storey residential zone to the centre of the plot to respond to Hookstone Road and the surrounding residential streets, and three-storey houses along Hornbeam Park Avenue to the south west of the site to relate to the college and office buildings in terms of scale.The proposal incorporates 42 dwellings and 47 apartments in a mix of detached and semi-detached buildings.Amenities in the vicinity include a Marks & Spencer store, other supermarkets and public transport links.Existing trees and landscape that surround the edges of the site will be retained, while an open green space buffer will also be placed to the north eastern boundary, opening up views to the beck and green fields beyond.The 3G pitch would be positioned to the eastern boundary of the site to provide Harrogate College with a well-located new sports facility.