Agenda item - BH2013/01403 - Stag Inn, 33 Upper Bedford Street, Brighton - Full Planning Permission

Demolition of existing public house (A4) and construction of a new 3 storey building comprising 9 one, two and three bedroom residential units with office space (A2) on the ground floor.

RECOMMENDATION – GRANT

Demolition of existing public house (A4) and construction of a new 3 storey building comprising 9 one, two and three bedroom residential units with office space (A2) on the ground floor.

(1)                   The Area Planning Manager introduced the application and gave a presentation by reference to plans, photographs and elevational drawings. The application proposed the demolition of the existing pub, and the creation of a three storey building with nine residential units. All the eight units on the first and second floors would have access to private amenity space, and only the unit on the ground floor would not. The loss of the pub had to be considered against policy to protect community assets, and priority was given to schemes that were mixed residential and commercial. It was also noted that in rural locations a pub could be a much greater community asset, but it was noted there were a number of pubs nearby, and this application was not considered contrary to policy as the office space would provide employment and the flats would help to meet the city’s housing needs. Officers had some reservations in relation to sample materials they had received as the colours indicated on concept work looked different; however, there were conditions attached to secure the final materials. There had been some concern in respect of amenity as the proposals were greater in height and scale than the existing building, but it was felt this would be of no significant harm. The principle proposed was acceptable and the application was recommended for approval for the reason set out in the report.

Questions for Officers

(2)                   It was clarified for Councillor Hyde that the balconies would be constructed of aluminium and there would be no wood on the bases.

(3)                   It was confirmed for Councillor Carol Theobald that the development would be car free.

(4)                   Information was provided to Councillor Randall in relation to the size of the flats. The Head of Development Control noted that the Council had no minimum sizes for private units, but the Policy team were looking at minimum standards for private units. The size of the balconies was also confirmed for Councillor Gilbey.

Debate and Decision Making Process

(5)                   Councillor Carden welcomed the application; he stated it looked very good and he looked forward to seeing it completed as it would enhance the area.

(6)                   Councillor Wells noted he was disappointed that the old pub would be demolished. Councillor Carol Theobald echoed these comments, and stated that it a shame there was no parking, and as such she would not be supporting the Officer recommendation.

(7)                   Councillor Cox welcomed the inclusion of office space on the site; stated he liked the design and thought the location was suitable. Councillor Randall echoed these views, and noted that the pub had been vacant for some time and deteriorated in condition; he would be supporting the Officer recommendation and felt the building was reasonable.

(8)                   Councillor Hyde noted she shared Officers concerns in relation to the materials; she thought the design was quite good and in particular liked the large windows.

(9)                   A vote was taken and planning permission was granted on a vote of 10 in favour with 2 against.

31.12    RESOLVED – That the Committee has taken into the consideration and agrees with the reasons for the recommendation set out in the section 11 of the report and the polices and guidance in section 7 of the report and resolves to GRANT planning permission subject to the Conditions and Informatives set out in section 11 of the report.