Agenda item

RECOMMENDATION:  That subject to the recommendations as set out in the report, the Head of Development Management / the Planning Decisions Manager be authorised to Grantplanning permission subject to conditions.

WARD:  Winchmore Hill

NOTED

1.    The introduction by Claire Williams, Planning Decisions Manager, clarifying the proposals.

2.      A scheme of this nature would normally be dealt with under delegated authority however the application is being reported to planning committee because it was called in by Councillor Barnes due to the level of local interest in the proposed development.

3.     Planning permission is sought for the redevelopment of the site to provide 9 x single family dwellings (3 x 2bed, 5 x 4bed and 1 x 5bed) with associated private gardens, landscaping, parking and pedestrian path.

4.     The site is a vacant piece of land on the northern side of Carpenter Gardens and the south of Cedars Road. To the west of the site is the Highfield pumping station.

5.     There have been previous refusals on the site with the last application being refused relating to in-efficient use of the land in relation to the number of units proposed, design, lack of a sustainable drainage strategy and securing contributions through a s106 legal agreement.  The application was dismissed at appeal and the inspector concluded that the scheme would be an efficient use of the land and would provide public ream improvements. The outstanding matters related to design and sustainable drainage and these matters have now been addressed in this scheme.

6.     As set out in paragraph 10.55 of the committee report. There are several trees on site however they are not subject to any formal designations or protections. The proposal involves the removal of two trees (G1 and G2), and the removal of these trees was previously accepted by the Council’s tree officer and the Planning Inspectorate. A tree protection condition is suggested to be attached to any planning permission granted.

7.     In terms of access across the site there is a shared pedestrian and cycle path proposed along the western edge of the site which will provide improved connectivity between Carpenters Gardens and Cedars Road which will benefit the residents.

8.     The proposal would make a positive contribution to the character and appearance of the area. It would not impact on neighboring residential amenity or result in an unacceptable impact on highway safety or the free flow of traffic. Furthermore, the scheme would provide additional residential units including six family units for the borough which would meet minimum space standards.

9.    The deputation of Councillor Ian Barnes speaking as Winchmore hill Ward Councillor.

10. The deputation of Mark Belkin (Local Resident) speaking against the Officers’ recommendation.

11. The response of Barry Lennon (Agent).

12. Members debate and questions responded to by officers.

13. Members concern in relation to parking issues in Carpenter Gardens/Cedars Road, loss of parking spaces and the footpath through the development connecting Cedars Road to Carpenter Gardens for safety/security reasons for existing residents.

14. A motion to defer the application by Councillor Rye and seconded by Councillor Jim Stevens.

15.  The unanimous support of the Committee to Defer the application.

AGREED to defer the application for the reasons given below:

·         Members resolved to defer the application to allow officers to discuss with the applicant the removal/ or gating of the footpath through the development connecting Cedars Road to Carpenter Gardens to prevent general public access through  for reasons of safety and security for existing residents.