Agenda item

Some Members had visited the site the previous day.

The Planning Officer presented the report and outlined the reasons for refusal as set out in the report.

The following spoke under the public participation at meetings scheme:

·         Robert Dearman, Objector

·         Jade Collins, Objector

·         Richard Mundy, Agent

·         Julie Collins, Objector

Members noted that there was an insufficient heritage assessment provided, which didn’t provide the information required to make an informed decision.  Although there were elements of the proposal that were acceptable, there was some concern by Members on the size of the garage, impact upon the conservation area and the potential impact on the tree.

A motion the refuse the application was moved, seconded, put to the vote and carried.

RESOLVED:

That the application be REFUSED for the following reasons:

1.    The application includes insufficient heritage assessment of the site, or of the impacts of the proposed development on its significance, character and appearance, and setting, contrary to Development Management policy DMC5 and paragraph 207 of the NPPF. Due to the lack of sufficient heritage assessment it is not possible to conclude that the heritage significance of the site would be conserved by the development, contrary to Core Strategy policy L3 and Development Management policies DMC3 and DMC5.

2.    By reason of its proposed design and materials, the proposed ‘glazed link’ extension would detract from the character and appearance of the existing building and its setting as a former agricultural barn contrary to Core Strategy policies GSP3 and L3 and Development Management policies DMC3, DMC5 and DMH7. 

3.    By reason of its siting and scale the proposed garage does not conserve or enhance the setting of the former barn (a non-designated heritage asset) or the valued characteristics of the Chelmorton Conservation Area contrary to Core Strategy policies GSP3 and L3 and Development Management policies DMC3, DMC5 and DMH8. 

4.    The proposed garage would fall within the Root Protection Area (RPA) of T1 (lime tree).  This tree makes a significant positive contribution to the character of the Chelmorton Conservation Area by reason of its prominence and good condition and life expectancy.  Further built development within the RPA of T1 would harm its long-term life expectancy resulting ultimately in its loss.  As such the proposal is contrary to Core Strategy policies GSP3 and L3 and Development Management policies DMC3, DMC5, DMC8 and DMC13.