Agenda item

The report was introduced by the Planning Officer who outlined the reasons for refusal as set out in the report.

The following spoke under the public participation at meetings scheme:

·         Sir Richard Fitzherbert, Supporter

·         Lindsey Jones. Applicant

Members noted that the application had received 43 letters of support.  The supporting text of Core Strategy Policy RT3 was discussed, which states that static caravans, chalets and lodges may be acceptable in locations where they are not intrusive in the landscape. Members considered that this development was small scale and not intrusive.

A motion to approve the application, contrary to Officer recommendation was moved and seconded.

Members requested clarification as to whether Policy DME7 regarding business expansion was applicable in this case.

The Head of Planning advised that when specific policies addressed an issue, in this case DMR1, the specific policy should be relied upon rather than more general polices, and that an approval would remain contrary to the Authority’s polices relating to tourism, even if Members felt that it could be justified under the business development policies.  Also whilst there was always scope for exceptions, in this case the more recent Development Management Policies had defined the circumstances in which those exceptions would apply.

Members noted that the location of the Shepherd’s Hut was close to a steel framed agricultural building which helped it to fit into the surrounding location.

The motion to approve the application contrary to Officer recommendation and as an exception to policy DMR1,  with final agreement of conditions delegated to the Head of Planning in consultation with Chair and Vice Chair of Planning was voted on and carried.

RESOLVED

To APPROVE the application with final agreement of conditions delegated to the Head of Planning in consultation with Chair and Vice Chair of Planning.