Agenda item

New diagnostics and treatment centre.

The Planning Officer, Laura Eden 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 a new diagnostics and treatment centre and was recommended for approval subject to conditions.

The Committee noted that there had been no objections from the internal consultees on the application, with an objection from the Coal Authority on the basis of a lack of a coal mining risk assessment.  It was added that while the Highways Section had no objection, they noted a requirement in terms of securing a financial contribution towards the costs of a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) and road marking works.  The Planning Officer explained that a financial contribution was not being sought and that instead both of those issues could be dealt with by way of a Grampian condition.  The Committee learned that there were no objections from members of the public, and the Parish Council had commented to note the mature trees in the area and asked whether they would be retained and protected during construction works.  The Planning Officer noted that the trees in question were outside of the application site, however, they were protected by way of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs).  

Members noted that the application fell an area specifically allocated for prestige industrial development and while this specified Class B1 and B2 use, the Council’s Employment Land Review (ELR) also identified the land as employment use, although not necessarily restricted for prestige development. 

It was noted that the proposed use was Class D1, however, with the potential for 80 jobs and a recent approval for the development of a car showroom which was also not B1 or B2 use, it was felt that this particular use was appropriate, although other D1 non-residential institution uses may not be.  The Planning Officer concluded by reiterating the comments made by the statutory and internal consultees, adding that Officers from the Ecology section had noted the need for a condition in terms of an ecological appraisal. 

The Chairman noted there were no registered Speakers and asked Members of the Committee for their questions and comments on the application.

Councillor P Conway noted that the purpose of the proposal was very important, in terms of providing a service for our communities, however asked who would be delivering the service, the National Health Service (NHS) or a private company.  The Planning Officer noted she did not know who was leading on delivery of the proposed service, however, it was noted that the facility would cater for both NHS and private patients.

Councillor R Lumsdon moved that the application be approved; she was seconded by Councillor S Iveson.

RESOLVED

That the application be APPROVED subject to the conditions detailed in the

Officer’s report to the Committee.