The Committee considered the report of the Head of Planning and Development.

The Chairman read out a statement on behalf of Staplehurst Parish Council.

RESOLVED:

1.  That permission be granted subject to the conditions set out in the report with:

  The deletion of the words “previously approved” from the sixth line of condition 4 (i) (Site Development Scheme);

  The further amendment of condition 4 (i) to (a) require a physical barrier to prevent access into the buffer area of the Ancient Woodland, (b) specify that the biodiversity enhancements within the buffer area shall include bird and bat boxes (with provision for owls), bee bricks and a bug hotel, and (c) specify that the landscape scheme shall be in accordance with the Landscape Character Assessment; and

  An additional condition requiring the provision of electric vehicle charging points for the two additional static caravans.

2.  That the Head of Planning and Development be given delegated powers to finalise the wording of the amended and additional conditions and to amend any other conditions as a consequence.

3.  That the Head of Planning and Development be requested to submit a report to the Committee on compliance with the requirements regarding the relocation of the septic tanks and the removal of the buildings and associated hardstandings from the buffer area of the Ancient Woodland within no later than six months.

Voting:  6 – For  4 – Against  2 – Abstentions