Issue - meetings

Change of use from a 3-bed end of terrace dwelling to 1 x 1-bed and 1 x 2 bed self contained flats with associated parking and amenity space

Recommendation: Approval

The application was approved.

Officers provided an overview of the application and highlighted the changes

set out in the addendum, including the condition that the refuse storage was to be relocated to the rear or sited in an appropriate timber shed. It was noted that the application site was in an area of special local character, not a conservation area.

A petitioner speaking in objection to the application addressed the Committee and raised the following points:

·         Though the road contains a mixture of property styles, it was predominantly family homes, which supported a healthy local community.

·         The location of parking spaces at the rear of the property contravened guidance for areas of special local character, was not practical due to narrow access and poor lines of sight, and in practice would lead to more parking on the street.

·         The garden level was 17 inches higher due to rubble, which removed neighbours' privacy.

·         Others properties in the area were more suitable for development.

·         If the Committee were minded to grant permission, they should add a condition for no further modification.

A representative of the applicant speaking in support of the application addressed the Committee and raised the following points:

·         The petitioners objected on the grounds that the development adversely changed the character and created parking problems, but there issues were both covered in the officer report. Fewer than 10% of houses in the area were converted, and parking would be provided to the rear of the property.

·         The applicant was under no obligation to provide parking, but were providing 2 spaces, creating a reduction in roadside competition. Numbers 81 and 93 Hilliard Road had already had parking to the rear approved, and it would be unfair to deny it in this case.

·         The development addressed the problem of affordable housing.

·         A previous application had been withdrawn to address planning concerns, including soundproofing and the kitchens had been rearranged to have a garden aspect.

In response to the points raised, officers confirmed that fewer than 10% of properties in the area are converted, and that a similar arrangement for parking had been approved for other properties on the street. Even without this there was no evidence of impact on the highway.

Members enquired whether the parking spaces could both be accessed at the same time, and whether they complied with size standards. Officers confirmed that this was the case, and noted the condition for the alley to be cleared which would provide sufficient access space.

The officer recommendation for approval was moved, seconded, and upon being put to a vote was unanimously agreed.

RESOLVED:,

-       That the application be approved as per the Officers report and addendum