Agenda item - BH2017/03021, The Excelsior, London Road, Brighton - Full Planning

Formationof additional storey comprising 2 flats and the creation of 2 additional car parking spaces.

RECOMMENDATION – GRANT

Ward Affected: Withdean

Formation of additional storey comprising of 2 flats and the creation of 2 additional car parking spaces.

Officer Presentation

(1)          The Principal Planning Officer, Gareth Giles, introduced the application and gave a presentation by reference to plans, site plans, photographs and elevational drawings.

(2)          it was noted that the main considerations in determining the application were the planning history of the site, the impact of the proposal upon the character and appearance of the area, amenity issues, transport and highway issues, sustainability and living accommodation standards. The principle of development within additional storeys was acceptable and there was a general presumption in favour of sustainable development and the most efficient use of sites was supported within local development plan policies. As such a residential redevelopment of the site would not be resisted in principle. The additional storey was considered to be acceptable in scale, height, materials, detailing and siting. The proposal would match the design of the existing block with projecting bays brick slips and aligned fenestration with a replacement lift overrun above. The additional height was considered to be acceptable and would not compromise the block form of the surrounding area. Overall the scheme was considered acceptable and approval was therefore recommended.

              Questions for Officers

(3)          Councillor Inkpin-Leissner enquired regarding any changes to/additional parking arrangements and it was confirmed that none were proposed.

              Debate and Decision Making Process

(4)          Councillor C Theobald stated that it was regrettable in her that an additional storey was to be added which would impact on those residents occupying what was currently the top floor, noting however, that this mirrored works undertaken to blocks nearby and the earlier previously expired permission.

(5)          Councillor Miller concurred in that view but considered that there were insufficient grounds for refusal. He hoped that the bathroom and kitchen facilities in the new flats would align with those of the existing units as he was aware that where was not so it could result in noise or odour problems.

(6)          A vote was taken and Members voted by 11 to 1 that planning permission be granted.

109.13  RESOLVED – That the Committee has taken into consideration and agrees with the reasons for the recommendation set out in the report and resolves to GRANT planning permission subject to the Conditions and Informatives also set out in the report.