CM/64/19/PL – Residential development comprising 2 x 3 bedroom bungalows, 2 x 3 bedroom houses, 2 x 2 bedroom houses, 3 x 4 bedroom houses along with access and parking following demolition of existing dwelling. This is a Departure from the Development Plan, Langford, Horsemere Green Lane, Climping
In presenting this report, the Planning Team Leader also directed Members to the officer’s written report update which had been circulated at the meeting and which set out the following:-
· Clarification of points relating to car parking; change of one property from bungalow to chalet style property; reference to Apple Tree Road should be Apple Tree Walk; and Policy QE DM4 was relevant to determination of the application
· Amended plans were detailed and condition amended accordingly
· No objection consultation response received from Southern Water
· 2 further objections received advising on the absence of street lights in the lane
· Traffic issues had been addressed in the officer report
· Conditions – amendment to conditions and additional conditions detailed
· Unilateral Undertaking/Footpath – the provision of a footpath from the entrance of the site to meet up with the entrance to Apple Tree Walk to the east had been offered by the applicant in the form of a now completed Local Unilateral Undertaking. This had secured £10,000 in funding and the recommendation had been updated to “Approve with a S106”.
Members participated in some debate on the matter and serious concerns were raised that this and forthcoming development In the immediate locality would have a severe detrimental impact on Horsemere Green Lane due to the potential for a significant increase in traffic movements. Although the contribution to the footpath by way of this development was welcomed, the view was expressed that a footpath along the entire length of Horsemere Green Lane was required – this point was reiterated by several Members and a view expressed that the lack of a footpath was unacceptable and dangerous.
Comment was made regarding the density of the development and a response given by the Planning Team Leader. Further remarks were made that it was unfortunate that the development along the Lane was piecemeal rather than providing a cohesive form in the area and was there a Design Plan? It was confirmed by the Planning Team Leader that there was no Design Plan – there were strategic allocations which could promote good design and planning principles but that did not apply to this development.
On the issue of drainage being raised, Members were informed that that was covered by pre commencement conditions whereby the applicant was required to provide details for consideration by the Council’s Engineers to ensure suitable drainage would be provided. The Engineering Services Manager provided more detailed advice to assure Members that drainage matters would be satisfactorily addressed.
The Committee
RESOLVED
That the application be approved as detailed in the report and the officer report update.