Banks Developments withdraw Mount Oswald planning appeal

Thursday 01 May 2008

Regional property developer Banks Developments has chosen to withdraw its appeal against Durham City Council’s decision to reject its development proposals for the Mount Oswald Golf Course in Durham City.

Banks’ plans for a prestigious £150m mixed residential and office development on the site would have created 4,000 jobs at a high quality business and research community comprising four distinct ‘quarters’ within a parkland setting.

But having agreed an extension of time with the landowners and having taken into account feedback received during consultation, Banks has decided to withdraw its appeal and to resubmit a new planning application later in the year.

Mark Dowdall, environment and community director at Banks Developments, says: “The proposals we put forward for the Mount Oswald site are extremely strong, but now we have more time to take a fresh look at the development options available.

“We have therefore decided to withdraw our appeal against the rejection of the initial scheme to allow us to develop amended proposals which will take full account of the opinions expressed by a wide range of consultees

“The revised plans that we put forward for what remains a sound development site will once again be designed to benefit both the local area and wider region economically, socially and environmentally.”

Nigel Galvin, director at Mount Oswald Golf Course, adds: “The course and venue remain fully open to members, visitors and guests alike whilst discussions continue around this proposal, and we are committed to providing high quality on and off-course facilities for the foreseeable future.”

Last updated: Thursday 01 May 2008, 15:05 PM