Agenda item

Conversion and extension of existing equestrian and agricultural buildings to form 9 dwellings, a replacement bungalow and erection of new garage blocks.

The Senior Planning Officer, Chris Baxter gave a detailed presentation on the report relating to the abovementioned planning application, copies of which had been circulated (for copy see file of minutes).  Members noted that the written report was supplemented by a visual presentation which included photographs of the site.  The application was for conversion and extension of existing equestrian and agricultural buildings to form 9 dwellings, a replacement bungalow and erection of new garage blocks and was recommended for approval subject to conditions. 

Members noted there were no objections from statutory or internal consultees, although the Campaign to Protection Rural England (CPRE) had raised some concerns as regards the sustainability credentials of the development.

The Chairman asked the Agent for the Applicant, Mr C Stockley to speak in relation to the Application.

Mr C Stockley noted there had been no objections to the application and therefore he would simply wish to note that he and the Applicant had worked closely with the Planning Department in terms of ensuring the application was suitable, would help to retain a heritage asset and be of benefit to the local area.

The Chairman thanked Mr C Stockley and asked Members of the Committee for their questions and comments on the application.

Councillor A Laing noted no objections from the Local Members and Councillor J Clark noted that in Paragraph 37 of the Officer’s report that the Council’s Conservation Team considered the main building to be a non-designated heritage asset and that this application would secure and retain the architectural qualities of the building. 

Councillor M Davinson noted he supported the Officer’s recommendation, however, believed that a site visit to this application site would have been beneficial.  The Chairman noted and agreed with Councillor M Davinson. 

Councillor A Bell asked what the view of the Planning Policy Team was in this case as he could not see reference within the report.  The Senior Planning Officer noted that nothing was recorded in terms of a response from Planning Policy, however, in speaking to colleagues within that Team, it had been noted that they were comfortable with the scheme. 

Councillor A Laing moved that the application be approved; she was seconded by Councillor G Bleasdale.

RESOLVED

That the application be APPROVED subject to the conditions detailed in the Officer’s report to the Committee.