Agenda item

Proposed barn extension to provide a restaurant at ground floor and ten guest rooms at first floor, changing the use from a public house / restaurant to mixed use (Sui Generis), with associated works and landscaping.

Recommendation: Refusal

RESOLVED: That the application be refused.

Proposed barn extension to provide a restaurant at ground floor and ten guest rooms at first floor, changing the use from a public house / restaurant to mixed use (Sui Generis), with associated works and landscaping.

Officers introduced the item and noted the addendum.

A petition was received in support of the application, and a written representation was submitted by the petitioners. The petitioners confirmed that the applicant had restored the derelict listed building, and his latest proposal was welcomed by local residents, including the Ruislip Residents’ Association. Members heard that the Covid-19 outbreak had prevented the dining hall at the site from opening, and the applicant needed to diversify for his business to survive, hence this application. The petitioners noted that the proposed changes should not create a visual intrusion, and local neighbours were happy with the plans, having been engaged by the applicant throughout the process. The Committee was informed that residents were happy for the application to be granted, and it was in the best interest of the local community, and would not cause harm to the green belt, the listed building or the local street scene by virtue of design.

Councillor Philip Corthorne, Ward Councillor for West Ruislip, submitted a written representation to the Committee. The Committee heard that local employment and the associated benefits of the application should be considered, particularly considering the challenging issues faced by businesses currently. Councillor Corthorne stated that the applicant was to be commended for his level of engagement with the local community, and noted that there was support from the Ruislip Residents’ Association and local residents. The Committee heard that the question of weighing up the relevant considerations was subjective, but Councillors were urged to approve the application.

Members recognised the unusual nature of the situation, which had support from local residents and the Ruislip Residents’ Association. The Committee expressed sympathy for the applicant in the current economic climate, and noted that if the application was refused, it could present difficulties for the business. Councillors agreed that local pubs were important parts of the community and that the restoration of the listed building had improved the site. The level of support from local residents was also noted.

The Committee commented that there was already permission for a restaurant at the site that had never opened due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and that this business could still be a success without the approval of the latest application. Members also noted that, although they could sympathise with local businesses and the applicant, planning considerations must be considered to approve the application. Concerns were expressed regarding the design, and Councillors noted officers’ comments that the application was considered too large, as the scale and mass of the application would overpower the Grade II Listed Building. Members also stated that they were not against the idea, but the development was too large and would need to be on a smaller scale to be approved.

The officer’s recommendation was moved and seconded by the Committee. Upon being put to a vote, the recommendation received five votes in favour, and four votes against.

RESOLVED: That the application be refused.