Housing

The residents’ questionnaire revealed a very strong desire against any further housing development, with the majority of responses wishing for none or up to 50 dwellings.

Subsequent to the questionnaire, planning consent has recently been given for the redevelopment of the St Anne’s Convent and School for 42 dwellings. However, Wolsingham will probably continue as a highly desired place to live, and there will continue to be upward pressure on prices, and for additional housing provision.

Conversion of St Ann ’s Convent

The Parish and District Councils recognise the importance of a dynamic and balanced population, and that housing needs continue to change. In order to ensure continued prosperity, there needs to be a supply of suitable housing.

Apart from a potential area identified by Wear Valley District Council near to the Steelworks, there are no large parcels of land currently or potentially available within the Parish for housing development. Therefore, sympathetic housing development should be allowed where appropriate.

Residents did recognise the problems associated with the relatively high cost of housing in Wolsingham, with the majority of responses favouring only the development of low-cost/affordable dwellings.

Wesley View development by Three Rivers Housing Association

However, wherever possible the Planning authority should resist the development of “executive” housing in favour of lower-cost properties, in order to assist local younger families to remain in the Parish.