RM

DECISION: APPROVE (FULL PLANNING)

Members had visited the site which was a proposal to replace existing dormers and extensions with two new continuous first floor dormers, plus a single storey front and rear replacement extension with proposed glazed infill and internal alterations on a detached chalet style bungalow.  The application was a resubmission of a previous application, which was withdrawn following advice that it would be recommended for refusal, due to the adverse impact on the visual amenity of the streetscene and locality.  The only difference from the previous application was that a green roof replaced a roof terrace.  The Council’s Development Site and Allocations Plan (DaSA) adopted in 2019 concluded that the property was outside the development boundary and High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  The officer’s opinion had not altered from the previous application and the recommendation was for refusal.

The Planning Committee heard from the Applicant’s architect who advised that his company specialised in renovation / retrofit schemes and outlined the low-carbon modernised plans for the property.  Members also heard from the local Ward Member and comments were noted from Fairlight Parish Council, as well as the Sussex Newt Officer who had no objection to the application.  

After deliberation and initial concerns that the design looked top-heavy, the Planning Committee felt that the proposal did meet the requirements of the Rother Local Plan Core Strategy and the DaSA.  They felt the design would significantly improve the property, was not offensive, was ecologically sound and would not have an adverse impact on the visual amenity of the streetscene and locality.  It was also considered that it would not be visible from the Fire Hills Country Park.  Therefore, the Planning Committee granted full planning permission subject to the inclusion of relevant standard conditions (delegated to officers to consider).

Councillor Mier moved the motion to APPROVE (Full Planning) and this was seconded by Councillor Prochak.  The motion was declared CARRIED (8 for / 5 against).

CONDITIONS:

1.     The development hereby permitted shall be begun before the expiration of three years from the date of this permission.

Reason: In accordance with section 91 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended by section 51 of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004).

2.     The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the following approved plans and details:

Drawing Nos. BB_PL_110 Rev B, BB_PL_111 Rev C, BB-PL_0120 Rev C and BB_PL_0121 Rev C dated 24 January 2022.

Reason: For the avoidance of doubt and in the interests of proper planning.

3.     The materials to be used in the construction of the external surfaces of the development hereby approved shall match in materials, colour and texture those used in the existing building unless an alternative finish is first submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority.

Reason: In accordance with Policy OSS4 (iii) of the Rother Local Plan Core Strategy and Policy HG9(ii) of the Rother Development and Site Allocations Plan.

NATIONAL PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK: In accordance with the requirements of the National Planning Policy Framework (paragraph 38) and with the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015, the Local Planning Authority has acted positively and proactively in determining this application by identifying matters of concern within the application (as originally submitted) and negotiating, with the Applicant, acceptable amendments to the proposal to address those concerns. As a result, the Local Planning Authority has been able to grant planning permission for an acceptable proposal, in accordance with the presumption in favour of sustainable development, as set out within the National Planning Policy Framework.