Issue - meetings

(Councillors Jeff Beck and Garth Simpson reported that they had been lobbied on Agenda Item 4(1))

The Committee considered a report (Agenda Item 4(1)) concerning Planning Application 13/03164/OUTD in respect of outline application for construction of two new dwellings and garages. Matters to be considered: Access.

In accordance with the Council’s Constitution, Mr Roger Thompson, Parish Council representative, Mr Chris Scorey - Town and Manor of Hungerford, objector, and Mr Chris Strang, agent, addressed the Committee on this application.

Isabel Johnson introduced the report to Members, which took account of all the relevant policy considerations and other material considerations. In conclusion the report detailed that the proposal was considered unacceptable and Officers recommended it be refused.

Councillor Paul Hewer informed the Committee that the site backed onto the River Dunn and not the Kennet and Avon Canal as stated in the report.

Councillor Anthony Stansfeld queried why the Environment Agency had not commented on the question of flooding. Isabel Johnson confirmed that all the usual agencies had been informed and it was not compulsory for them to give a response. Councillor Stansfeld commented that inefficiency did not mean they did not have a view.

Mr Roger Thomspon in addressing the Committee raised the following points:

·        Hungerford Town Council did not support this application.

·        The Town Plan was clear regarding the need to protect the Town Boundary and he urged the Committee to uphold the findings of the Officer.

·        It was recognised that the site was included in the SHLAA (Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment) for potential development. It was therefore considered premature to put forward an application when the boundary was being reconsidered.

·        The Town and Manor of Hungerford opposed the application as the charity defended the boundary of the town and due to the sites proximity to the river; a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

·        James Podger’s view as a near neighbour had some merit as the design was a tasteful extension of the development within the boundary. The Town Council suggested that the application be resubmitted once the new boundary had been agreed.

Mr Chris Scorey in addressing the Committee raised the following points:

·        Mr Scorey was a neighbouring land holder and objected to the development on the grounds of the need to conserve the riverside meadow.

·        There was concern about flooding in the area as his land had flooded in the recent deluge. The River Dunn was managed to allow a flood plain upstream.

·        He concurred with Roger Thompson’s concern regarding the SHLAA and felt the application was premature and would prejudice the plan.

·        It was feared that, if granted, the application would create precedence for developments over the settlement boundary.

Councillor Jeff Beck asked for clarification on flooding in the area. Mr Scorey explained that the Environment Agency had issued warnings, however he was uncertain if the site had been submerged during the recent flooding.

Mr Chris Strang in addressing the Committee raised the following points:

·        There were examples in other parts of the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 52