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

The Chairman read out statements on behalf of Boughton Monchelsea Parish Council and Mr Blythin, agent for the applicant.

Contrary to the recommendation of the Head of Planning and Development, the Committee agreed to refuse permission.  In making this decision, Members considered the development to be an over-intensive form of development of the site with the consequential jarring with the spatial character of the immediate surrounding area contrary to policies DM1 and DM11 of the Maidstone Borough Local Plan 2017.

It was further considered that the less than substantial harm arising from the development to the nearby heritage assets was not outweighed by the very limited public benefits arising from the proposal contrary to policies SP18, DM1 and DM4 of the Maidstone Borough Local Plan 2017.

RESOLVED:  That permission be refused and that the Head of Planning and Development be given delegated powers to finalise the reason(s) for refusal to include those key issues cited above.

Voting:  9 – For  2 – Against  0 - Abstentions