Issue - meetings

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

Mr Newton, the applicant, addressed the meeting.

Contrary to the recommendation of the Head of Planning and Development, the Committee agreed that subject to the advertisement of the application as a departure from the Development Plan, and no representations being received raising new material matters, the Head of Planning and Development be given delegated powers to grant permission subject to conditions to be agreed by the Officers including specific conditions to ensure high quality architectural detailing.

In making this decision, Members were mindful that the proposed development is not in accordance with Development Plan policy.  However, the high quality design of the building, the limited harm to the local landscape, the high sustainability credentials of the building, the extensive landscaping proposals, and the lack of a five year housing supply were considered to be grounds to override existing policies in the Development Plan.  In view of this, the proposals were considered to be sustainable in terms of the National Planning Policy Framework 2012.

RESOLVED:  That subject to the advertisement of the application as a departure from the Development Plan, and no representations being received raising new material matters, the Head of Planning and Development be given delegated powers to grant permission subject to conditions to be agreed by the Officers including specific conditions to ensure high quality architectural detailing.

Voting:  7 – For  4 – Against  0 – Abstentions

Note:  The Chairman and Councillors Chittenden, Paterson and Mrs Robertson requested that their dissent be recorded.