Agenda item

Residential development – Outline (all matters reserved).

The Chairman noted the Senior Planning Officer, Chris Baxter was leaving the Authority and that this would be his last Committee meeting.  The Committee thanked the Officer for his professionalism and good humour and wished him well for the future.

The Senior Planning Officer, CB gave a detailed presentation on the report relating to the abovementioned planning application, a copy 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 residential development – outline (all matters reserved) and was recommended for approval subject to conditions and a s106 agreement.

The Senior Planning Officer, CB noted the outline application had included an illustrative layout, to demonstrate that 18 semi-detached properties could be accommodated within the site area.  He added that the existing bungalow would be retained and access would be from the main highway to the north of the site, with an area of open space being retained along the northern boundary.  Members were also asked to note there was a public right of way that ran along the eastern boundary of the site. 

The Senior Planning Officer, CB explained there were no objections from statutory or internal consultees, subject to the conditions within the report.  He noted there had been 1 letter of objection from the public and 1 letter of support, with a summary being set out within the report.

The Senior Planning Officer, CB explained that the proposals were acceptable in principle, a sustainable development in a sustainable location, with a nearby bus stop.  He added that the Highway Section considering that a suitable access could be made from the main highway.  It was added there would be a s106 legal agreement securing: 10% affordable housing; a financial contribution towards off-site biodiversity works; and a financial contribution towards the Durham Heritage Coast Management Plan. 

The Chairman thanked the Senior Planning Officer, CB and asked Members of the Committee for their questions and comments.

Councillor J Blakey moved that the application be approved, she was seconded by Councillor G Bleasdale.

RESOLVED

That the application be APPROVED subject to the completion of a Section 106 Legal Agreement and the conditions detailed in the Officer’s report.