Issue - meetings

Demolition of existing store building; subdivision of site and construction of two storey detached dwelling with associated solar panels, access, parking and landscaping works at 9 Ashleys, Mill End, Rickmansworth.

Recommendation: that planning permission be granted subject to conditions.

The application was for demolition of existing store building, subdivision of site and construction of two storey detached dwelling with associated solar panels, access, parking and landscaping works at 9 Ashleys, Mill End, Rickmansworth.

There were no officer updates.

A member of the public spoke against the application.

County Councillor Paula Hiscocks spoke on the application.

Committee Members asked questions about the detail of the application which were responded to by officers.  The Committee’s discussions included the following:

·         A Committee Member commented on the existing parking pressures at the site and the fact that the access to the proposed development was narrow and expressed the view that as a result the proposal may involve an unacceptable adverse impact on the amenity of neighbouring residents.  Officers responded that parking issues had been carefully considered.  Although one resident had subdivided a section of their garden to create an informal parking area, using an access which was owned by Three Rivers District Council, there was currently no lawful parking provision.  The proposal would create two lawful spaces, and any grant of planning permission would require the applicant to reach an agreement with the Council with regard to lawfully using the access.  The proposal would therefore result in a net gain of two spaces, which met the parking standard. 

·         A Committee Member recommended that the wording of condition 3 should be strengthened, in order to ensure that lawful use of the access road would be legally guaranteed in perpetuity.  Officers responded that the current wording was considered sufficient, as it required the applicant to provide evidence in writing that right of way had been granted ‘lawfully, permanently, and without restriction.’

Councillor Whately-Smith moved, and Councillor Morris seconded, that planning permission be granted subject to conditions.  On being put to the vote this was carried, the voting being 4 in favour, 4 against, 3 abstentions.  The Chair’s casting vote was used.

RESOLVED: that the application be granted, subject to conditions.