Agenda item

The South Area Principal Planner presented the report and outlined the reasons for refusal of the proposal. The site is currently used as a campsite under permitted development rights for 60 days a year. There had been an erection of a building in support of the 60-day campsite but this has not been removed from the site when not in use as is required under the provisions of the GPDO and does not otherwise benefit from planning permission. Due to the openness of the site and lack of tree planting, the campsite would be highly visible from public rights of way and screening through tree planting would be inappropriate for the landscape. Concerns were made around noise pollution and the impact this would have on neighbouring properties, no assessment or measures were submitted as part of the application. The application was made by the applicant under the impression it would be exempt from Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) regulations, however, following consultation this is not the case.

The following spoke under the public participation at meetings scheme:

•         Graham Stubbs – Applicant

Members discussed the following points:

•         The openness and lack of screening was mentioned and having a more permanent campsite would intrude on the landscape. Suggestions of there being more appropriate and less prominent sites were made.

•         Members voiced support for the rural economy and small businesses and the proposal would make farming more economically sustainable within the area. Support from the local community was highlighted. 

•         Suggestion of concerns raised in the officer’s report, particularly around the lack of screening, could be addressed through amendment.

•         Members discussed the enforcement enquiry of the erection of the building as well as the lack of BNG report and felt these would need to be resolved before making a decision.

•         Members queried whether other sites had been looked at which would have less landscape impact. It was noted other land had not been explored as part of the pre-application process.

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

RESOLVED:

That the application be DEFERRED and delegated power to the Head of Planning, Development and Enforcement Manager and South Area Manager to approve the application on a reduced seasonal basis, in consultation with chair and vice chair, subject to achieving a satisfactory amenity building, landscaping and submission and acceptance of the required Biodiversity Net Gain information.