CONCERNS over vehicular access and development next to a Grade I listed building were not enough to convince Councillors to refuse a housing plan yesterday.

Members of the Regulatory and Appeals Committee voted to approve the development of 30 houses for social rent in Flockton Road, East Bowling.

The development, on the site of the former Council building Flockton House, is next to the Grade I listed Bolling Hall, one of just five Grade I listed buildings in the district.

Concerns were raised by local residents and Bowling and Barkerend Councillors Rizwana Jamil and Imran Khan were heard by the committee, but could not influence the panel’s decision.

The Councillors raised issues around access to the site, from Brompton Avenue, arguing the road was too narrow and is used as a rat run by heavy goods vehicles.

Cllr Jamil also said the layout of driveways may pose a risk to pedestrians, especially young children and the elderly.

One member of the public said they did not want social housing built near their house, to which Cllr Doreen Lee responded: “I grew up in social housing and I like to think I have come out ok.

“We all have a right to live anywhere and to say people in social housing should not live somewhere, I have to disagree.”