Issue - meetings

Outline Application for the construction of up to 49 houses together with access road.

It was reported that this application was before the Committee as it was a departure from the Local Plan and it had also been referred to the Committee at the request of Councillor Land, the local Ward Member.

The Committee had before it the published Officer report containing the key planning issues, relevant planning policies, planning history, any response from consultees, written representations received and a recommendation of approval. 

At the meeting, an oral presentation was made by the Council’s Head of Planning (CB) in respect of the application. 

An update sheet was circulated to the Committee prior to the meeting with details of an objection submitted by Councillor Bucke.

Sue Parker, a local resident, spoke against the application.

Parish Councillor Carpenter, representing Thorpe-le-Soken Parish Council, spoke against the application, being contrary to the Parish Council’s previous submission.

Councillor Land, the local Ward Member, spoke against the application.

Tim Snow, the agent for the applicant, spoke in support of the application.

Questions were raised in regards to the views of Thorpe-le-Soken Parish Council which Officers responded to.

Following discussion by the Committee, and consideration of further advice provided by Officers at the meeting with regards to defending potential reasons for refusal, in particular evidence to justify any impact on highways, it was moved by Councillor Hughes, seconded by Councillor Bennison and RESOLVED that contrary to the Officers’ recommendation of approval, the Head of Planning (or equivalent authorised officer) be authorised to refuse planning permission for the development for the following reasons:

·         Adverse impact on heritage assets;

·         Adverse impact on wildlife/protected species; and

·         Adverse impact on highways.