Agenda item - BH2013/02685 - 6 Cornwall Gardens - Householder Permission

Alterations to front boundary wall. (part-retrospective)

RECOMMENDATION – GRANT

Alterations to front boundary wall. (part-retrospective)

(1)                   The Area Planning Manager introduced the application and gave a presentation by reference to photographs, plans and elevational drawings. It was explained that the wall had recently been rebuilt, and the application now proposed flint detailing to mirror other examples in the street. It was noted that a late objection had been received from Councillor Shanks. The main considerations related to the impact on the surrounding area. The application was recommended for approval for the reasons set out in the report.

Questions for Officers, Debate and Decision Making Process

(2)                   Mr Gowans stated that the Conservation Advisory Group (CAG) were recommending refusal, and made reference to the status of the hardstanding at the front of the property which Officers had agreed to look into. CAG regretted the loss of the original wall, and the Heritage Officer had noted that the style was individual to the streetscene. It was also suggested that the design of the piers would be considered incongruous and detracted from the streetscene. It was reiterated that the CAG were recommending refusal of this application. The Area Planning Manager confirmed that the area of hardstanding was permitted development, but they could look into his further at the request of the CAG.

(3)                   Councillor Davey emphasised the comments from the CAG, and stated that the wall was visually unattractive, and a destruction of the property frontage in a conservation area.

(4)                   Councillor Hyde noted she did not like the loss of the greenery at the front of the premises, but noted that the Committee were not able to consider this. Councillor Jones echoed these comments and noted that he had less concern with the proposed wall. It was confirmed for Councillor Carol Theobald that the front garden could not be conditioned in terms of the greenery, and the driveway had previously been in situ.

(5)                   Mr Gowans reiterated that the wall was not as it used to be following the demolition and reconstruction; the issue related to the size of the wall and the widening of the access to the garage.

(6)                   It was confirmed for Councillor Gilbey that there was a mix of walls in the streetscene.

(7)                   A vote was taken and planning permission was granted on a vote of 9 to 2.

80.7       RESOLVED – That the Committee has taken into consideration and agrees with the reasons for the recommendation set out in paragraph 11 and resolves to GRANT planning permission subject to the conditions and informatives set out in the report.

Note: Councillor Shanks was not present during the consideration and vote on this application (see minute 75.5).