Issue - meetings

RECOMMENDATION: Approval subject to completion of S106 Agreement and conditions

WARD: Cockfosters

NOTED

1.     The introduction by the Planning Decisions Manager highlighting that planning permission had already been granted for the extensions also proposed as part of this application. The key issue to consider in respect of this application was the principle of the conversion of the property into flats and the impact of this on the amenities of the occupiers of the adjoining properties and on the character and appearance of the Conservation area. Policy DMD5 set out the criteria against which an application for the conversion of a property to flats will be considered.

2.     All flats would meet and exceed the minimum floor space standards. A site visit and check of the planning history indicates that there are no other flat conversions in the road, with the exception of no.33, which would appear to be a purpose built block of flats. The property in its present form and if extended as approved would provide 5 double bedrooms.

3.     The conversion of the property to flats could generate additional noise by future occupants. It was not considered that this would result in unacceptable noise and disturbance. Sound insulation between units would be addressed through the Building Regulations.

4.     Provision is to be made for two off street parking spaces. It was considered that this would harm the character and appearance of the conservation area and hence the application was amended to limit the number of spaces to two.

5.     The PTAL (Public Transport Accessibility Level) rating reported was 3, however, after looking at the rating again it was considered to be incorrect and that the actual PTAL rating was more likely to be 1a.

6.     One further letter of objection had been received from the Hadley Wood association

7.     The description of the development needed to be corrected to reflect the mix of units proposed – 1x1 bed, 1 x 2 bed and 2 x 3 bed.

8.     The statement of Councillor Michael Lavender, Cockfosters Ward Councillor.

9.     The deputation of Andrew Norton, neighbouring resident (23 Lancaster Avenue).

10.  The response of Mr Andreas Charalambous, Agent.

11.  Members’ discussion and questions responded to by officers.

12.  Following a debate the officers’ recommendation was approved by the majority of the Committee: 5 votes for and 4 against. Councillors During and Hassan did not participate in the vote as they arrived after the start of consideration of this application.

AGREED that subject to the completion of a S106 Agreement, the Head of Development Management / Planning Decisions Manager be authorised to grant planning permission subject to the conditions set out in the report.