Decision details

The application before Members sought planning permission for the change of use of the building to a mixed residential and childcare use for up to 12 children (aged 2 to 5 years).

Members noted that the application had been called-in by Councillor Jody Ganly on the grounds that she was not satisfied with the proposed parking and drop off arrangements, as to who would enforce what the applicant had proposed. Councillor Ganly had also commented that residents in Mendip Road already suffered congestion from St. Marys Catholic School and speeding traffic to cut out the traffic lights at the junction of Hornchurch Road/ Park Lane. Councillor Ganly believed that Mendip Road would bear the brunt of the increased vehicular movement and noise and felt this would impact on residential amenity.

With its agreement Councillor Jody Ganly addressed the Committee.

Councillor Ganly commented that the proposal would lead to parking problems in the area which was already suffering from issues of increased traffic and displaced parking. Councillor Ganly also commented that the problems would be exacerbated when the controlled parking zone in Park Lane was extended. Councillor Ganly concluded by commenting that nearby resident’s amenity would suffer detrimentally.

During a brief debate Members discussed the suitability of the proposed mixed use scheme and traffic/parking issues that would impact on the area.

The report recommended that planning permission be granted however following a motion to refuse the granting of planning permission which was carried by 6 votes to 5 it was RESOLVED that the granting of planning permission be refused on the following grounds:

1.         The proposed change of use, by reason of the increased level of activity within the building and outdoors areas, together with the activity arising from parents and children entering and leaving the site, would result in unacceptable levels of noise and disturbance to the detriment of residential amenity, contrary to Policy DC61 of the Core Strategy and Development Control Policies DPD.

2.         Insufficient drop off facility resulting in parking and traffic problems in surrounding roads.

The vote for the resolution to refuse the granting of planning permission was carried by 6 votes to 5.

Councillors Hawthorn, Ower, Nunn, Whitney, Martin and Williamson voted for the resolution to refuse the granting of planning permission.

Councillors Misir, Best, Kelly, Westwood and White voted against the resolution to refuse the granting of planning permission.