Agenda item

Erect two dwellings (amended plans).

With the aid of a visual presentation including plans and aerial photographs, the Planning Officer identified the site within the Green Belt and beyond the village infilling area and explained the proposal and relevant planning policies to members. The planning designations were highlighted, particular detail was given to the site’s susceptibility to ground water flooding. Photographs of the street frontage, existing and proposed layout plans as well as views looking towards the site from the allotments. Members were also provided with details of each proposed dwellings ground floor layout, the roof plans and both front and rear elevations and the inclusion of solar panels was noted. The Case Officer advised that there would have been a reduction in scale of the dwellings during the application process. . Together, both dwellings if approved would be in keeping with the street scene. Neighbouring amenity would not be harmed. Due to the site’s proximity to the village of Longham, access to facilities in Ferndown and the opportunity to benefit from the Green Belt village infill exception the principle of the development was considered to be acceptable. The scale, design and impact on the character and appearance of the area were acceptable subject to conditions. Impacts on protected habitats were acceptable as mitigation could be secured via CIL. Dorset Council highways team were satisfied with the use of the pre-existing site access and issues regarding access for emergency vehicles had been resolved. The recommendation was to grant subject to conditions.

Public Participation

Mr Moir spoke on behalf of the applicant. He explained that the applicant had engaged with the town council to seek their views of the proposal and was pleased to see the letters of support submitted. There were no highways dangers and access were considered to be acceptable. The proposal represented limited infilling which was currently occupied by storage buildings which did not make a valuable contribution to the Green Belt. If approved, it would have created optimal use of the site as well as ensuring the units were well designed. It would not have resulted in harm, and it was within a sustainable location. The agent reiterated that it would not affect the amenity of neighbouring properties. He hoped members would support the recommendation.

Members questions and comments

• The recycling centre was over 1km to the south so the two dwellings would not be affected.
• Members noted the parish council objections, however, queried whether they were based on material planning considerations. This was clarified.
• Comments regarding whether there were pedestrian crossings near to the site.
• Clarification regarding site access. 
• Private arrangements for refuse vehicles collection
• Sustainable location and the inclusion of solar panels was welcomed. 

Having had the opportunity to discuss the merits of the application and an understanding of all this entailed; having considered the officer’s report and presentation; the written representatives; and what they had heard at the meeting, a motion to APPROVE the officer’s recommendation to GRANT planning permission as recommended, was proposed by Cllr Spencer Flower, and seconded by Cllr Toni Coombs.

Decision: To grant planning permission for the reasons set out in the officer’s report.