Agenda item

Demolition of the existing building (use class F1) and construction of a new block comprising of 6 residential apartments and a community use space (Use Class F1, F2, E(e) and (f)) with associated parking and landscaping works (change in the description of development (18/1/22))

Recommendation: Refusal

RESOLVED: That the application be refused as per officer’s recommendation

Demolition of the existing building (use class F1) and construction of a new block comprising of 6 residential apartments and a community use space (Use Class F1, F2, E(e) and (f)) with associated parking and landscaping works (change in the description of development (18/1/22))

Officers introduced the application and made a recommendation for refusal.

A petitioner in objection of the proposed development addressed the Committee. It was submitted that the residents of Rockingham Bridge Conservation area fully supported the reasons for refusal. The report detailed both national and local policies on why the area should be preserved, the building had architectural interest and was an important community asset. It was noted that the application would see the building demolished and be replaced by a standard urban three-story flat roof structure. The proposed density and footprint of the development was greater than that found in the area and the development did not respect the historic character and appearance of the local area. The former telephone exchange was unique and it was submitted that this piece of Uxbridge was worth keeping.

The agent for the application addressed the Committee and referred to photographs that were circulated to Members and officers prior to the meeting. It was noted that the agent had worked on this application since February 2021 and worked with the LPA on the design proposal. The current building was located between a conservation area and city centre scale, and there was a mixture of housing types. The development aimed to meet the future needs of residents and provided three opportunity factors that would improve the area. The site would provide six above standard homes with ample amenity space and discourage overlooking to existing residents. The proposal was a fully sustainable development that considered local public transport and renewable energy sources contributing to Hillingdon’s zero carbon targets and it was a community asset that had easy access to local amenities. The proposal bridged the gap between two landscapes, the massing observed the local character and the design was of high quality. It was submitted that the development would propose interesting architecture, allow good daylight and sunlight, windows would prevent overlooking to neighbours and each home would have private amenity. The Committee was asked to consider the positives of the application, the needs of future generations of residents, the new quality space provided for community and the sustainable development bearing in mind climate change principles.

In response to Member questions, in was reported that the trees matter had been addressed through communications with the Tree Preservation Officer and the amenity space offered, including private balconies was considered satisfactory. Although no family accommodation had been included, it was noted that this was acceptable given the available footprint and location of the site.

The Legal Officer advised the Committee that an additional reason for refusal in relation to amenity space could be included provided there were sufficient reasons. The Committee was reminded that this was a fresh application and Members were asked to consider the application based on the information before it.

Members thanked officers for the comprehensive report. Although there were good aspects of the application such as the sustainable resources, the officer’s recommendation was moved, seconded, and unanimously agreed.

RESOLVED: That the application be refused as per officer’s recommendation