Agenda item

Outline application for residential development of up to 22 dwellinghouses with all matters reserved (amended plans and description 12/10/2017)

The Committee considered a report of the Senior Planning Officer regarding an outline planning application for residential development of up to 22 dwellinghouses with all matters reserved on Land to the South of Byers Green House, Church Street, Byers Green (for copy see file of minutes).

The Senior Planning Officer gave a detailed presentation of the application which included a site location plan, aerial view of the site, various photographs of the site and proposed site plan.

The Agent, Mr A Lang, spoke on behalf of the Applicant and in support of the development.  There was only one single reason for refusal on sustainability grounds, which did not significantly outweigh the benefits of the proposal.  This site was located within the village entry signs and was supported by two bus stops outside.  It was located 270m from the centre of the settlement and well screened with existing trees and hedgerows.  Although part of the hedgerow would be removed for access, the rest would be upgraded and maintained as per a condition.  There was no agricultural value to the land, it was unused and financial contributions of £16k had been agreed to mitigate any impact on ecology.

Mr Lang confirmed that most of the objectors were from adjoining properties but the application was supported by a group of local landowners and professionals.  There was no objection from Highways and overall the development would benefit the area, increase housing, and benefit local businesses.

Councillor Shuttleworth confirmed that small settlements faced problems and confirmed that dwindling school rolls had significant detrimental effects on schools.  As such he considered the benefits of the contributions outweighed the negative impact and he moved a recommendation for approval.

Councillor Clare, appreciated the issues raised by Councillor Shuttleworth but expressed concern at the possibility of inappropriate developments being built in the Countryside.  He moved the recommendation for refusal.

Councillor Patterson confirmed that although the road was serviced by a bus route, there was only one hourly bus to Spennymoor or Willingon and no direct route to Bishop Auckland or Durham.  She referred to a previous similar application for one dwelling which had been rejected by the Committee.  Councillor Patterson did not consider this application to be any different to the one previously refused and therefore could not support it.

Councillor Martin considered the site was within the settlement boundary, however the site plan had identified a vast area in between and he was concerned that the development would set a precedent for large expansion and seconded the recommendation to refuse.

Resolved:

That the application be REFUSED for the reasons outlined in the report.