I attended the Sunderland Council Planning meeting last Monday evening. The proposed development (after sale) of our land at Burdon was the third item discussed. The recommendation of the Planning Department to the Council committee was to approve the scheme.
Following a presentation by the Planning Official appointed, the chair invited those opposed to the scheme to share their concerns. After that I gave an address explaining the benefits to ASC, followed by a representative of the preferred developers "Homes By Esh" who explained the rationale behind the decisions made.
The main issue raised by those objecting was the access into the proposed new estate, and the general safety, all wanted a northern entrance. The reason that a southern entrance was favoured was that the land that would have allowed a northern access had previously been sold by Sunderland Council to another developer.
The chair of the meeting then suggested to the voting councillors that the correct vote was to "Defer" the application for the issues raised to be investigated further. The upcoming local elections will prevent any more Planning meetings until after they have been held.
Our land agent and Homes By Esh will instigate meetings with the Council to progress matters hopefully ahead of a summer resubmission.
Whilst this was a disappointing decision, we intend to work closely with our advisers to reach the right solution for Ashbrooke Sports Club Ltd.
Thank You
Ian McConnell Chair of Trustees 3rd April 2026
