Issue - meetings

This report advises Members of the material considerations when assessing planning applications against the current adopted policies in relation to conflicting demand regarding different use, densities and building heights.  This advice should be reflected in the decisions of the Planning Committee.

The Committee;

(1)            Considered the current situation relating to the use of land following the publication of changes in national planning policy

(2)            Acknowledged the national and local material considerations in relation to housing need, housing land supply and the need to optimise development land and that due weight should be attached to these matters when assessing planning applications against current adopted local policies

The Committee received a report outlining material considerations that should be taken into account when assessing planning applications against the current adopted policies in relation to conflicting demand from different use, densities and building heights.  Subject to the committee’s agreement the proposed strategy was to be communicated to the Planning Committee.  It would be deployed to assist them in determining applications in light of requirement to optimise housing supply. 

It was stressed that the proposed policy was an interim measure compiled in response to changes in National Planning Policy Framework, but would help to demonstrate that the Council was doing everything possible to boost housing delivery and give greater certainty to the local plan process. 

Concern was expressed that implementation of the proposals could result in over development, however it was noted that policies already in place would act as further checks and balances to mitigate the possibility.

It was further noted that as a result of the Planning Improvement Plan members had the opportunity to engage with developers on major planning applications, to discuss such matters as height and density much earlier in the process.

Accordingly, the Committee;

(1)            Considered the current situation relating to the use of land following the publication of changes in national planning policy

(2)            Acknowledged the national and local material considerations in relation to housing need, housing land supply and the need to optimise development land and that due weight should be attached to these matters when assessing planning applications against current adopted local policies