Erection of a detached self-build bungalow.

The Committee was informed that this planning application sought permission for a detached self-build bungalow.

It was reported that, although the site lay outside of the defined settlement development boundary, the Council’s housing policies were now out of date and the ‘tilted balance’ applied.

Although the proposal would not meet the self-build criteria under Local Plan Policy LP7 it would, in the opinion of Officers, be acceptable in terms of the three strands of sustainability given its proximity and accessibility to local services and public transport links, and environmental benefits in terms of energy efficiency and biodiversity enhancements. The proposal was not likely to result in any adverse impacts to significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the NPPF taken as a whole. The tilted balance had been therefore engaged and the principle of development was deemed acceptable by Officers.

Members were told that the development represented an appropriately scaled and sensitively designed bungalow within an established residential area, reflecting the character and appearance of surrounding built form. It would not result in material harm to the amenities of neighbouring occupiers, nor would it create any unacceptable impacts on the local highway network. The proposal achieved suitable provision for access, parking, drainage and internal living standards, and incorporated a broad range of energy-efficiency measures.

Officers felt that this proposal would deliver modest but meaningful economic, social and environmental benefits, including contributing to housing supply at a time when the Council could not demonstrate a five-year housing land supply. Overall, the development was considered to comply with the policies of the NPPF and was therefore recommended by Officers for approval, subject to conditions.

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 Planning Officer (CC) in respect of the application.

No updates had been circulated to Members in relation to this application.

Peter Le Grys, the applicant’s agent, spoke in support of the application.