5 extra caravan pitches at Cutters Combe, Enmore, Bridgwater

What was proposed

The application was retrospective, for a change of use of land to create 5 additional pitches for touring caravans, motorhomes and campervans.

“The Planning Officer introduced the application with the aid of a presentation. The Officer explained that the application was to consider Change of use of land to create 5No. additional pitches for the siting of 5No. further touring caravans/motor homes/camper vans (Retrospective).”

Minutes

The applicant's agent addressed the committee

The planning agent addressed the committee.

Questions on biodiversity gain and landscaping

Councillors questioned a Biodiversity Net Gain exemption for retrospective development and whether concerns about non-native landscaping had been addressed; officers said the exemption followed legislation and breaches could be enforced separately.

“Councillors raised concerns about the report stating the development was exempt from Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) because it had already been implemented, questioned whether this created an undesirable loophole. Officers confirmed the BNG exemption is contained within current legislation for retrospective developments and is not a local policy decision.”

Minutes

Reassurance on preventing residential use

Councillors sought reassurance that conditions would prevent permanent residential or non-tourism use, and officers said the proposed holiday occupancy condition was consistent with other holiday sites and could be enforced.

“Officers advised that the proposed holiday occupancy condition was consistent with conditions used on other holiday sites and provided sufficient control to prevent permanent residential use. Any breaches could be dealt with through enforcement powers. • Councillors considered concerns raised during discussion had been adequately addressed by officers. • Councillors considered the discussion helpful in clarifying how planning conditions would control the site's future use.”

Minutes

Vote and decision

The committee resolved unanimously to grant planning permission.

“Having been duly proposed and seconded the Planning Committee resolved that the Planning Committee resolved that the Planning Application be granted planning permission in line with the officer recommendation.”

Minutes