Agenda item

Outline planning application for 14 self-build plots, with all other matters (except access) reserved.

The Committee considered a report of the Senior Planning Officer regarding proposed erection of 14 self-build plots, with all other matters (except access) reserved (for copy see file of Minutes).

The Senior Planning Officer provided a detailed presentation which included photographs of the site and plans of the proposed layout. Members had also visited the site the previous day and were familiar with the setting and surroundings.

It was reported that the applicants proposed to offer to Design and Build each house from the starting point of a range of indicative house types. Buyers would also be permitted to build their own homes under a Design Code which would be required to be submitted and agreed with the Planning Authority under reserved matters.

Councillor Milburn added that she was aware that some smaller estates were failing with many plots remaining unsold. This was resulting in roads being un- adopted and in some cases sights becoming blights on the landscape. She therefore asked whether there was any assurances or compensation which could be put in place to cover the council for this eventuality. The Senior Planning Officer advised that there was always potential for slow development on self-build sites however conditions attached to the application would ensure that all road ways etc. were built to an adoptable standard prior to the development on an individual plot.

Councillor Shield queried whether there was to be any play provision provided at the northern end of the site. The Senior Planning officer advised that there was no provision for play however on planning balance it was concluded that this did not outweigh the benefit of the proposals.

Councillor Kay added that he was disappointed to learn that no 106 agreement for a contribution towards education provision was to be put in place. The Senior Planning Officer advised that the issues had been discussed in depth with the School Places and Admissions Manager and it was acknowledged that once the contribution had been received from Barratt Homes in respect of the previous application, this would be sufficient to cover demand and meet the needs identified by the assessment.

Councillor Kay further added that he agreed that some play provision should be provided. The Senior Planning Officer reiterated that this was not significant or adverse enough to outweigh the benefits of the application.

Councillor C Kay MOVED that the application be approved subject to the conditions as listed in the report.

Councillor A Bainbridge SECONDED the proposal.

Following a vote being taken it was:-

Resolved: That the application be approved subject to the conditions as listed within the report.