Decision details

Resolved:

That planning application 22/00765/OUT for the outline planning application for residential development of up to 70 dwellings with associated works (details of access to be determined) at Scotts Nurseries (Merriott) Ltd, Higher Street, Merriott, Somerset, TA16 5PL be APPROVED as per the officer recommendation, the following reason:

The Council's lack of a five-year housing land supply lends significant weight when considering the planning balance. In this case, the site is located in a sustainable location with access to a range of services and facilities and would result in the effective re-use of previously development land. The proposal is not considered to result in such a significant and adverse impact upon visual amenity, residential amenity, highway safety, flood risk/drainage or ecology/biodiversity as to justify a refusal of planning permission. Therefore, in terms of the 'planning balance', it is considered that there are no adverse impacts that would 'significantly and demonstrably' outweigh the benefits of providing up to 70 dwellings in this sustainable location. The proposal is considered to be in accordance with Policies SD1, SS1, SS2, SS4, SS5, SS6, HG3, TA1, TA4, TA5, TA6, HW1, EQ1, EQ2, EQ4, EQ5 and EQ7 of the South Somerset Local Plan 2006-2028, and the aims and objectives of the NPPF.

Approve subject to conditions and a Section 106 that secures the following obligations:

1.            The provision of affordable housing,

2.            Contribution towards the provision of sport, play, open space and strategic facilities. 

3.            Highway infrastructure and works.

4.            Education contribution

5.            Travel Plan

6.            Management of Public Open Space

7.            NHS Contributions

8.            Phosphate mitigation strategy

(voting:6 in favour, 5 against and 1 abstention )