Issue - meetings

Councillor Tony Vickers, Vice-Chair, in the Chair.

(Councillors Jeff Beck, Hilary Cole, Clive Hooker, Claire Rowles and Howard Woollaston declared a personal and prejudicial interest in Agenda Item 4(1) by virtue of the fact that they were acquainted with the applicant who was a former District Councillor and in Councillor Cole’s case there had been a close working relationship. Councillor Hooker was also the Ward Member and had been lobbied. As their interest was personal and not prejudicial or a disclosable pecuniary interest, they determined to remain to take part in the debate and vote on the matter and Councillor Hooker would step down from the Chair for the item.)

1.    The Committee considered a report (Agenda Item 4(1)) concerning Planning Application 19/01035/HOUSE in respect of the proposed demolition of a porch and single storey extensions, new single storey extension and other alterations at Gilberts, Hill Green, Leckhampstead.

2.    In accordance with the Council’s Constitution, Jonathan Harker (agent), addressed the Committee on this application.

3.    Gemma Kirk introduced the report to Members, which took account of all the relevant policy considerations and other material planning considerations. In conclusion the report detailed that the proposal was unsatisfactory and a conditional approval was not justifiable. Officers recommended that the Committee refuse planning permission.

4.    Mr Harker in addressing the Committee raised the following points:

·         Officer concerns over the impact of the extension lacked substance as it would barely be visible outside the plot and the hedge would be maintained to ensure screening.

·         The proposed extension was lower than the existing extension and would be physically subservient to the main cottage.

·         The proposed slate roof had been approved at the pre-application stage and the character of the extension would reflect the existing building.

·         The flat rooved part of the extension would sit under the original thatch roof of the main cottage and provide a more attractive join than there was with the current extension.

·         The extension would be more sustainable with a new boiler and more energy efficient insulation. The south side of the property would provide the main living accommodation.

·         Internal partitions which caused the property to be delisted would be removed.

·         The application conformed to the Council’s Policy C6.

5.    Councillor Adrian Abbs asked what accommodation would be provided on the north side of the property. Mr Harker advised it would be used to the utility room and other services.

6.    Councillor Abbs asked Mr Harker to expand on the original extensions who advised that the porch had been added to the property and the existing rear extension abutted the property at an awkward angle.

7.    Councillor Hooker in addressing the Committee as Ward Member raised the following points:

·         The applicant had employed the services of a respected architect who was an expert in historic buildings to draw up the plans.

·         The applicant withdrew the first application for a two storey extension and submitted revised plans for an extension of a smaller scale.

·         The Conservation Officer did not support the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 11