Issue - meetings

The Planning Officer advised there was no update.

A Parish Councillor spoke against the item.

Mr. Turner also spoke against the item.

Mr. Gupta spoke in support of the application.

Members raised three main points: the reasonableness of a landscaping condition, the lack of responses from consulted neighbours, and discrepancies in site coverage opinions. The officer responded by confirming in their view a landscaping condition is not considered reasonable as no changes to the frontage are proposed, the officer acknowledges that no objections from neighbours have been received, and provided clarification on how the21% plot coverage was calculated, which exceeds the 15% guideline but is deemed acceptable for maintaining the conservation area's openness. The officer also clarified that she has included the lightwells within the 21% as they would effectively serve the basement, because they are part of that built form.

In response to a further question; the officer stated that she would not know what the figure would be if the lightwells were not included, as it would require a calculation, but on the basis of a worst case scenario, in respect to the 21% including them, the officer felt it was safer to acknowledge that in her view, albeit that there is an exceedance, she still found the development to be acceptable in that regard.

Members emphasised the importance of preserving pre-1958 dwellings in Moor Park, highlighting their special status and historical significance. They referred to a proposed rear elevation drawing and expresses concerns about its alterations, suggesting it does not adequately preserve the building's original character. They referred to the statement from Mr. Turner regarding potential harm to the conservation area and stress that the building itself warrants protection beyond just the conservation context. Additionally, Members critiqued the justification for the proposed percentage increase in alterations, finding it unsatisfactory, and invited further input from committee members.

Members expressed agreement with the concerns raised by the Parish Councillor and Mr.  Turner regarding a specific conservation appraisal. They argued that the proposed changes represent a significant deviation from the established conservation guidelines. They highlighted the disproportionate elevation of the proposal, which they believe undermines the intended character preservation outlined in the appraisal. Additionally, Members also raised concerns about inconsistencies in the application of conservation appraisals across different areas, suggesting a need for a more uniform approach to ensure fairness in decision-making.

The Chair reminded the committee that they should look at each individual item on its merits rather than across the board. Officer confirmed this.

Members raised further concerns about whether the proposed changes will preserve or enhance the area's character. They acknowledged the applicant's efforts in presenting a visually appealing design but remained sceptical about the impact of specific elements, particularly the lightwells. Members highlighted that even though certain features may not be visible from public spaces, they still hold significance in maintaining the conservation area's integrity. The potential for light pollution from the proposed lightwells raises additional concerns, as it could affect neighbouring properties.

Members of the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 60