Decision details

The application before Members proposed the demolition of the existing building and erection of two replacement front and rear blocks comprising a total of thirty-five residential units and a ground floor commercial unit with a flexible use as A1 retail/ A2 financial and professional services/ A3 restaurant and cafes/ B1 office/ D1 non-residential/ D2 assembly and leisure.

The application was deferred at the meeting on 24 August 2017, as Members had wished for Staff to undertake further discussions with the applicant in relation to viability; specifically in order to resolve if any on-site affordable housing provision could be agreed in addition to the required education contribution.

Members noted that the application had been called-in by Councillor Frederick Thompson on the grounds that he believed the proposal would reduce the housing shortage and would not be too tall for its location.

In accordance with the public speaking arrangements the Committee was addressed by an objector with a response by the applicant’s agent.

The objector commented that there were concerns relating to noise nuisance and hours of work during the construction phase. The objector also commented about levels of dust and impact delivery vehicles would have on the site. The objector concluded by commenting that he wished for a pre-construction survey to be undertaken on his property to ensure no damage was caused during the construction period and that he was unhappy with officers’ comments in the report.

With its agreement Councillor Frederick Thompson addressed the Committee.

Councillor Thompson commented that he felt that the proposal would go some way to alleviating housing shortages in the area and that the proposal was of a suitable nature and would sit well in the streetscene.

During the debate Members sought and received clarification relating to the Highways contribution and debated any changes to the proposal since it had last been considered in August 2017.

It was RESOLVED that planning permission be refused as per officer’s recommendation.