Solar car port canopies at Car Park Deben Swimming Pool, Woodbridge

What was proposed

Two rows of solar canopies were proposed over existing parking spaces, with photovoltaic panels and lighting beneath the structures.

“1.4While there are no objections from statutory consultees, the application must proceed to planning committee because East Suffolk Council are the landowner. 2.Site Description and Proposal 2.1This application relates to the existing public car park associated with the Deben Leisure Centre; accessible off the southern edge of Station Road, Woodbridge.”

“Arrays of black coloured photovoltaic modules with anti-reflective coating would be mounted on the canopies, while lighting battens would be installed on the canopy's underside towards the rear of the bays. 2.4The works would not impede access to existing car parking provision and all forty-nine (49) spaces currently provided on site would be retained for use following completion of the proposed works.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The Senior Planner presented the application, while the Leisure Development Partnership Manager and Construction Director answered technical questions.

Members’ discussion

Members discussed lighting controls, parking charges, payback, security, visibility and the environmental benefits of the proposal.

“Councillor Hedgley hoped there would be no extra parking charges to over the costs. He asked if there had been any comments from residents. The Senior Planner confirmed there had been none.”

“Councillor Bennett asked about security. Does this compromise or raise any issues for people going to their cars and if there was reduced visibility.”

Minutes

The vote

Councillor Daly proposed approval, Councillor Deacon seconded it, and the application was supported unanimously.

“On the proposition of Councillor Daly, seconded by Councillor Deacon it was unanimously…”

“That the application is recommended for approval and there are no contrary views from consultees.”

Minutes

Conditions of approval

Approval included conditions covering the start date, approved drawings, removal, contamination, noise assessment and construction hours.

“An investigation and risk assessment must be completed in accordance with a scheme which is subject to the approval in writing of the Local Planning Authority. The investigation and risk assessment must be undertaken by competent persons (see National Planning Policy Framework) and conform with prevailing guidance (including BS8485:2015+A1:2019, BS 10175:2011+A2:2017 and Land Contamination Risk Management) and a written report of the findings must be produced.”

“A noise rating level (LAr) of at least 5dB below the typical background sound level (LA90,T) should be achieved at the nearest noise sensitive receptor. Where the noise rating level cannot be achieved, the mitigation measures considered should be explained and the achievable noise level should be identified and justified.”

Minutes