Issue - meetings

Demolition of existing office buildings and redevelopment of Application Site to provide 98 apartments/dwellings, including conversion of the Grade II* Listed Woodcote Grove and Grade II Listed Stable Block, with parking, access, landscaping and other associated works.

Description

Demolition of existing office buildings and redevelopment of Application Site to provide 98 apartments/dwellings, including conversion of the Grade II* Listed Woodcote Grove and Grade II Listed Stable Block, with parking, access, landscaping and other associated works.

Decision

The Committee noted a presentation from the Planning Development Officer.

The Committee was addressed by Ward Councillor, Liz Frost who spoke in objection to the Application. The Committee also heard from an objector and following connection problems, a statement was read out on behalf of the Applicant.

The following points were raised by the Committee:

Parking: Members spoke about the number of proposed car parking spaces, and noted that this number is reflective of the Government’s guidance on the encouraged use of alternative modes of transport. The Committee noted the importance of making it clear that not all dwellings would benefit from their own parking space. It was noted that the proposed site is situated with easy access to public transport for cyclists and pedestrians, and would also host a car club in order to promote sustainable means of travel. Members raised concerns as to the ability of all potential residents to make use of non-car based methods of transport.

Amenity space: Members spoke about the private and shared amenity space for the proposed flats and dwellings. It was noted that not all of the proposed housing units would meet the standard of amenity space, but a number would exceed it. Members highlighted the nearest park being a five minute walk away, and the possibility of the proposed development incorporating amenity space for children to play.

Restoration of buildings: Members noted that the proposed development would allow for the restoration and maintenance of the listed buildings at no cost to the Council or other local agencies. It was highlighted that many of these buildings may deteriorate without investment.

Style of buildings: Members noted how the application details the proposed development of modern buildings around the redevelopment of existing listed buildings. It was highlighted that this was thought about carefully to alleviate the possibility of diminishing the setting of the original historic structures.

Affordable housing: Members noted the need for socially-rented accommodation within the Borough; and how the split was formed through viability negotiations in terms of what the site could offer.

Trees: Members noted how the Applicant agreed to enter into a Landscape Ecology Management Plan, which would put the responsibility of tree management on the owner. This would ensure maintenance and offer a long-term management strategy to the site.

Councillor Steven McCormick proposed a deferral. This was seconded by Councillor Neil Dallen. The reason for this deferral was to secure additional information relating to:

·         Highways and parking

·         Amenity space including playground

·         Housing mix

·         Tree management

Following consideration, the Committee resolved unanimously that:

The Application be DEFERRED and brought back to the Committee once all the additional information is available.

</AI3>

<AI4>