Agenda item

The application before members would involve the construction of a terrace of three bungalows, 2 three bedroom and 1 two bedroom. The bungalows would front on to Coltsfoot Path with private amenity space located to the rear.  Existing trees on the site would be removed.

In accordance with the public speaking arrangements, the Committee was addressed by an objector who raised concerns over the number of developments in Harold Hill and the loss of green space which would be detrimental to local residents. Concerns were also raised over the effect of the proposed development on the back garden environment of existing properties. In response the applicant confirmed that the package of planning applications relating to the Briar Road Estate would result in the loss of some open space, approximately 7% of open space would be built on, but the development would enhance and improve the remaining open spaces.  The applicant stated that the design of the bungalow design of the residential units was aimed at minimising any impact on existing residents.

With its agreement Councillor Denis O’Flynn addressed the Committee.

Councillor O’Flynn commented that the green space on the development site was well used by local residents and that residents were concerned over the loss of the space. Councillor O’Flynn also commented that he was not opposed to house building in the Harold Hill area but had concerns that residents’ views had not been listened to during the consultation process. Councillor O’Flynn also made mention of a petition, signed by residents, that had been submitted to the Council and urged that the Committee to reconsider the application.

During the debate members discussed the loss of amenity space resulting from the proposed development and the loss of mature trees in the area. The relationship between the proposed development and existing dwellings was also considered.

Members discussed the deficiencies in the original Briar Estate and the Decent Homes programme that was due to enhance the estate.

Following a motion to refuse the granting of planning permission which was lost by 4 votes to 6.

It was RESOLVED that:

The development proposed was liable for the Mayor’s Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) in accordance with London Plan Policy 8.3 and that the applicable charge would be £5,000. This was based on the creation of 250m² of new gross internal floor space.

That the proposal was unacceptable as it stood but would be acceptable subject to the applicant entering into a Legal Agreement under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended), to secure the following:

·      A financial contribution of £18,000 to be used towards infrastructure costs in accordance with the Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document.

·           All contribution sums shall include interest to the due date of expenditure and all contribution sums to be subject to indexation from the date of completion of the Section 106 agreement to the date of receipt by the Council.

·      The Developer/Owner to pay the Council’s reasonable legal costs associated with the Legal Agreement prior to the completion of the agreement irrespective of whether the agreement is completed.

·      Payment of the appropriate planning obligations monitoring fee prior to the completion of the agreement.

That Staff be authorised to enter into a legal agreement to secure the above and upon completion of that agreement, grant planning permission subject to the conditions as set out in the report.

The vote for the resolution to grant planning permission was carried by 6 votes to 4. Councillors Hawthorn, Ower, McGeary and Durant voted against the resolution to grant planning permission.