Issue - meetings

Erection of shower block.

It was reported that this application had been referred to the Planning Committee at the request of Councillor Fairley, the local Ward Member.

Councillor Fairley had earlier declared a non-pecuniary interest in relation to Planning Application 16/01084/FUL by virtue of the fact that she was the local Ward Member and by virtue of the fact that she was pre-determined. Councillor Fairley withdrew from the meeting for this item.

Members recalled that this application had first been considered by the Committee at its meeting held on 31 January 2017 when it had been resolved that consideration be deferred in order for Officers to seek the following additional information:

• Evidence to justify a compelling functional need (as set out in Policy EN3 of

the 2007 Local Plan);

• Details of the proposed materials of the building;
• Details of how refuse will be removed from the waste store, and;

·        Evidence that alternative locations within the site had been explored/considered to minimise any identified harm to the amenities of neighbouring residents, the setting of listed buildings and the adjoining Conservation Area.

It was reported that since that meeting Officers had contacted the applicant’s agent to request the information. The  applicant’s justification for the shower block was that there was a need to upgrade and improve facilities at the site as the existing were well past their best and far below the standard guests staying at the site would expect. No consideration of alternative locations had been provided by the applicant. In response to the request for further details of materials and refuse disposal arrangements, the applicant had declined to provide such details on the basis that this information could be secured through planning conditions if necessary.

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 given by the Council’s Planning Team Leader (SE) in respect of the application.

An update sheet had been circulated to the Committee prior to the meeting with details of an email received from Bradfield Parish Council raising some issues and the Officers response to that email.

The Chairman confirmed that only those Members who had attended the site visit in January 2017 for this application would be allowed to debate and vote on this item.

Following discussion, it was moved by Councillor Everett, seconded by Councillor McWilliams and unanimously RESOLVED that, contrary to the Officer’s recommendation of approval, the Head of Planning (or equivalent authorised officer) be authorised to refuse planning permission for the development due to the following reasons:

·        The lack of clear and convincing justification contrary to Policy EN3 (Coastal Protection Belt); and

·        The detrimental impact on the setting of the Conservation Area and Listed Buildings contrary to paragraph 132 of the NPPF.