Issue - meetings

1.    The Committee considered a report (Agenda Item 3(1)) concerning Planning Application 23/01492/FUL Erection of equestrian workers dwelling; with associated parking, turning, landscaping, private amenity space and access in respect of Land approximately 400 metres west of Dark Lane and South of Denford Lane, Upper Denford

2.    Ms Isabel Oettinger (Planning Officer – Development Control) 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 acceptable in planning terms and officers recommended that the Development Manager be authorised to grant planning permission subject to the conditions outlined in the main and update reports.

3.    In accordance with the Council’s Constitution, Mr Jerry Keates and Ms Stella Coulthurst, Town Council Representatives, and Mr Mark Pettitt and Mr Richard Evans, applicant/agent, addressed the Committee on this application.

Parish/Town Council Representation

4.    Mr Keates and Ms Coulthurst addressed the Committee – their representation can be viewed here:

Western Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 16th July 2024 (youtube.com)

Member Questions to the Parish/Town Council

5.    Members did not have any questions of clarification.

Applicant/Agent Representation

6.    Mr Pettit addressed the Committee – his representation can be viewed here:

Western Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 16th July 2024 (youtube.com)

Member Questions to the Applicant/Agent

7.    Members asked a number of questions of clarification and were given the following response:

·       This had been a separate planning application from the main house due to the growing concern and need for the extra land, to reduce journeys from the main estate. The quality of the brood mares had increased and necessitated an on-site presence

·       The safety and welfare of the horses until the completion of the house would be maintained by frequent journeys from the main estate to the horses.  

·       Security was provided through CCTV on the main estate, but an on-site presence would be more effective, as well as the completion of the North Lodge.

·       Offsite accommodation had not been considered as the accommodation needed to be within sight and sound of the brood mares, the location of the accommodation had been chosen to satisfy that criterion.

·       The accommodation would be used by an existing member of staff.

Ward Member Representations

8.    Councillors Tony Vickers addressed the Committee. His representation can be viewed here:

Western Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 16th July 2024 (youtube.com)

9.    Councillor Dennis Benneyworth addressed the Committee. His representation can be viewed here:

Western Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 16th July 2024 (youtube.com)

Member Questions to the Ward Members

10. Members asked a question of clarification and were given the following response:

·       CCTV was not considered to be a viable alternative to an on-site presence - an onsite presence would allow a better understanding of the horses’ welfare and security.

Member Questions to Officers

11. Members asked questions of clarification and were give the following responses:

·       The occupancy condition would apply for the lifetime of the building and the building was tied to the equine  ...  view the full minutes text for item 2