Issue - meetings

1.      The Committee considered a report (Agenda Item 4(1)) concerning Planning Application 24/00348/FUL in respect of the erection of 6 dwellings with associated access, car parking and landscaping at Coley Farm, Stoney Lane, Ashmore Green, Thatcham.

2.      Ms Sian Cutts 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.      The Chairman asked Mr Paul Goddard if he had any observations relating to the application. Mr Goddard indicated that he was content with the proposed layout and while there was a slight shortfall in parking spaces, it was not enough to warrant an objection. He confirmed that cycle parking and electric vehicle charge points would be provided. Also, the predicted 18 additional traffic movements was a small number. Overall, Highways Officers had no objections.

4.      In accordance with the Council’s Constitution, Ms Vikki Row applicant, addressed the Committee on this application.

Applicant Representation

5.      Ms Row addressed the Committee. The full representation can be viewed on the recording:

Western Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 18th December 2024

Member Questions to the Applicant

6.      Members asked questions of clarification and were given the following responses:

·       The applicant indicated that the timescale for development of the estate would be extended slightly if this application was approved.

·       Clarification was provided that although there had been no objections from statutory technical consultees, there had been objections from Cold Ash Parish Council and Newbury Town Council.

·       It was confirmed that alternative uses of the site had not been considered – the applicant was a housebuilder, so it was logical for them to build additional homes.

·       Assurances were given that silt build-up in the attenuation ponds was being actively monitored and action would be taken as necessary to clear this.

Ward Member Representation

7.      Councillor Stuart Gourley addressed the Committee. The full representation can be viewed on the recording:

Western Area Planning Committee - Wednesday 18th December 2024

Member Questions to the Ward Member

8.      Members did not have any questions of clarification.

Member Questions to Officers

9.      Members asked questions of clarification and were given the following responses:

·       Removal of the pumping station was seen as a positive outcome, since they were more prone to failure than gravity sewers. Removal of the rising main would reduce the risk of foul water flooding on the site and associated contamination of the nearby watercourse. The Council had little authority to refuse such as change, if Thames Water was willing to accept it.

·       Hydraulic calculations had been submitted and checks showed that there would be no increase in flood risk. SuDS had been requested primarily for amenity and biodiversity benefits. The most severe recent rainfall event on the site had been 1:10 years. While a variation in the freeboard had been  ...  view the full minutes text for item 3