Meeting documents

Proposal: Erection of 3 dwellings and associated parking (revised scheme to withdrawn application 14/03026/FUL)

The Planning Officer presented the application as detailed in the agenda, noting that the site already had permission for 8 dwellings, of which 6 were completed.  The proposal was to change a single storey bungalow into two semi-detached houses and change the orientation of one further house.  He confirmed the Highway Authority were happy with the parking and access arrangements and his recommendation was to approve the application.

Mr R Harris, a local resident, spoke in opposition to the application.  He said the changes proposed to plot 1 would have a detrimental effect on the properties opposite and would loom over nearby bungalows.  He asked if permission was granted, that a condition be included to ensure the site was completed within 1 year.

Mr J Michell also spoke in opposition to the application.  He disagreed with the officers report and its conclusions and said the 6 properties already built should not be used as a yardstick for the remainder of the development. 

One of the Ward Members, Councillor Steven Page, said the original application for 8 dwellings was acceptable but he expressed his concern that an additional dwelling would be overdevelopment of the site.  He also expressed concern at the use of render for the external walls.

Councillor Dean Ruddle, the other Ward Member, said the proposed two storey semi-detached properties would have an overbearing effect on the houses opposite. 

The Area Lead Planning Officer clarified that, whilst the 6 properties were under construction, the builder had chosen to install loft conversions which had been regularised during the build.  The existing 6 properties must be considered as a yardstick to the current application in regard to height and materials. 

During discussion, varying views were expressed. Some Members felt that there was sufficient land and good access whilst others felt that houses would be overbearing on the bungalows and houses opposite.

It was proposed to refuse permission, contrary to the officer recommendation, because the increased level of development would have an adverse impact upon neighbouring properties and is contrary to Policy EQ2.  This recommendation was seconded and on being put to the vote, was carried (voting: 7 in favour, 4 against, 1 abstention).

(Voting: 7 in favour, 4 against, 1 abstention)

At the conclusion of the vote, Councillors Jo Roundell Greene, Crispin Raikes and Derek Yeomans asked that it be recorded that they did not vote against the officer’s recommendation.