Issue - meetings

The application was for the replacement of the existing pedestrian bridge over the River Colne with a new pedestrian and cycle bridge, including upgraded footpaths, fencing and seating areas.  The application had been brought to the Committee for consideration as the District Council was the applicant.

It was noted that Condition 3 set out requirements in respect of the impact of construction traffic on the area.  In order to ameliorate the concerns of residents it was agreed that an additional Condition requesting a construction management plan setting out access routes and  times of work would be incorporated into the application.

It was acknowledged that the immediate vicinity of the site was used as nesting area and it was agreed that an Informative, requiring due care to be taken of bird nesting season and habitats, would be added to the application.   

It was agreed that an additional Informative requiring the applicant to display appropriate diversion signs in the surrounding area including on noticeboards would be added to the application.

Concern about damage to trees was noted and officers confirmed that there would be some work to trees and mitigations would be secured through condition.

The Officer recommendation to approve the application, subject to the additional Condition and Informatives set out above, was proposed by Councillor Steve Drury, seconded by Councillor Debbie Morris, put to the vote and carried unanimously.

RESOLVED that Planning Application 23/1139/FUL be approved.

NOTE - The additional condition and informatives were as follows:

No development shall take place, until a Construction Method Statement has been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. The Statement shall provide for:

i.          parking of vehicles of site operatives and visitors

ii.          access arrangements including the routing of vehicles

iii.         loading and unloading of plant and materials

iv.         storage of plant and materials used in constructing the development

v.          the erection and maintenance of security hoarding including decorative displays and facilities for public viewing, where appropriate

The approved Construction Method Statement shall be adhered to throughout the construction period.

Reason: This condition is a pre commencement condition in the interests of highway safety and convenience in accordance with Policies CP1 and CP10 of the Core Strategy (adopted October 2011) and Policy DM10 of the Development Management Policies LDD (adopted July 2013).

It is requested that the applicant ensures that appropriate diversion signage is in place, including on notice boards near the site, prior to the commencement of any works and that these are maintained for the duration of works and updated as required.

Construction activities should take account of bird nesting season (1 March - 31 August inclusive).