Issue - meetings

Change of use to one gypsy pitch comprising one mobile home, one touring caravan, one day room and associated works.

It was reported that this application had been referred to the Planning Committee at the request of Councillor M Brown, a 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 eleven letters of support from local businesses and individuals submitted by the applicant’s agent.

Carol Bannister, a local resident, spoke against the application.

Parish Councillor Christine Hamilton, representing Weeley Parish Council, spoke against the application.

Councillor M Brown, a local Ward Member, spoke against the application.

Dr Simon Ruston, the agent on behalf of the applicant, spoke in support of the application.

Following discussion by the Committee, it was moved by Councillor Baker and seconded by Councillor McWilliams that the application be approved, subject to planning conditions, which motion on being put to the vote was declared LOST.

Councillor Hones then moved and Councillor Alexander seconded that the application be refused on the grounds of sufficient existing local provision for gypsies/travellers; concerns about the supply of utility services and the loss of agricultural land. However, having received and considered the advice of Officers, Councillor Hones then WITHDREW his motion.

It was then again moved by Councillor Baker, seconded by Councillor McWilliams and RESOLVED that the Head of Planning (or equivalent authorised officer) be authorised to grant planning permission for the development, subject to the following conditions –

1. Temporary permission for 2 years, and after that period all structures etc. to be removed and site re-instated to paddock

2. Personal to the applicant

3. Occupation only by persons meeting Gypsy Definition

4. Development in accordance with plans

5. No more than 1 pitch, and no more than 2 caravans one of which can be a Mobile Home complying with Caravan Sites Act

6. No occupation until following details approved:-

Landscaping scheme and timetable for implementation

Hardstanding/parking provided

Foul and surface water drainage installed in accordance with details

Refuse storage details agreed

7. No businesses to be carried out from the site

8. No vehicles to be stored at the site in excess of 3.5tonnes unladen weight

9.  No external lighting