The Committee considered the report of the Head of Development Management.

Mr Holland, an objector, and Councillor Sams of Harrietsham Parish Council (against) addressed the meeting.

RESOLVED:

1.  That permission be granted subject to the conditions and informatives set out in the report with the amendment of condition 5 as follows:-

Notwithstanding the details submitted before development commences a scheme of landscaping shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority.  This should include an island of landscaping to enhance bio-diversity and to soften the visual impact of the approved building and trees as shown on drawing no. WM/328/500 that shall consist of trees of not less than Nursery Standard size (8-10cm girth, 2.75-3m height), conforming to the specifications of BS 3936 Part I "Nursery Stock", that shall be planted during the tree planting season (October to February) following substantial completion of the building hereby permitted, and shall be maintained thereafter to the satisfaction of the Local Planning Authority.

Reason:  In the interests of amenity and in accordance with policies ENV28, ENV33 and ENV34 of the Maidstone Borough-Wide Local Plan 2000.

2.  That the details to be submitted pursuant to condition 5 must be agreed in consultation with Councillor Harwood, Ward Members and the Parish Council.

Voting:  13 – For  0 – Against  0 – Abstentions