Agenda item

The Committee considered application P/FUL/2021/05633 to sever land and erect a detached 3 bedroom chalet bungalow with associated vehicular access and parking at Old Oaks, Verwood.

What the proposal entailed and how this would be achieved was explained. The development’s appearance and dimensions were detailed and how it would sit within the site. Access arrangements were explained and how these would be proved for. What impact it would have on residential amenity was also taken into consideration. There was considered to be no adverse impact on the oak tree on site – or on an adjacent one - with construction work having mitigation measures to that effect. Moreover, the trees’ location, size and spread were all taken into consideration in any effect it would have on the development and its ability to access natural light. Given all this, the officer’s recommendation was to approve the application.

Darryl Howells, the agent, explained the benefits of the development which accorded with planning policy and asked that it be approved.

A statement received from one of the local Ward Members, Councillor Spencer Flower, was read to Committee. Whilst accepting the principle of the development, he expressed concern about the longer-term pressure on the two mature oak trees, which will cause significant overshadowing, shadowing and dominance of the land which will become the garden. He wanted to ensure the preservation of the trees and felt this could not be guaranteed. On that basis he asked for the application to be rejected.

The Council’s Tree Officer, Andrew Douglas, reaffirmed officer’s view that the development could be satisfactorily achieved without any detriment to either of the trees, and whilst there would undoubtedly be shading of the garden of the property – particularly during summer months - this would be known and accepted and account should be taken of this by any potential owners. However, there would still be sufficient access to light in and around the development in any event.

From debate, the majority of the Committee considered the proposal to be acceptable.

Having had the opportunity to discuss the merits of the application and an

understanding of all this entailed; having taken into account the officer’s report

and presentation; the written representation; and what they had heard at the

meeting, in being proposed by Councillor Shane Bartlett and seconded by councillor David Morgan, on being put to the vote, the Committee agreed – by 6:2 to grant permission subject to appropriate conditions set out in the report. One of those to reject the application was the Chairman who was also one of the other local ward Members - Councillor Toni Coombs.

Resolved

That application P/FUL/2021/05633 be granted permission, subject to appropriate conditions set out in paragraph 16 of the report.

Reasons for Decision

1)               The development proposal would provide an additional dwelling in the built up area of an appropriate layout and design that would not have an adverse impact on the character and appearance of the area or the surrounding landscape.

2)               The development would not result in any significant harm to neighbouring residential amenity and the occupants of the proposed dwellings would enjoy an acceptable standard of amenity in accordance with Policy HE2 of the Local Plan.

3)               With the amendments secured the proposal would not have an adverse impact on road safety and would provide an acceptable level of on-site parking provision.

4)               The proposal would provide appropriate mitigation for its impact on biodiversity and biodiversity enhancement would be secured.