Accessible entrance ramp at Rother District Council Amherst Block, Bexhill

“The proposed development seeks planning permission to install a ramp and create a level access into the building via the existing motor room (this would be the new entrance hallway). This alteration would allow the use of the existing lift removing the need to make substantial internal alterations.”

“A flat roof canopy is proposed above the new ramped entrance. This would be constructed from a single ply membrane with dark metal edge detailing and supported by steel posts. The access ramp itself would be constructed from concrete.”

“The site comprises of the building known as the Amherst Office Building and its associated private car park, both situated directly north of the Town Hall, Bexhill (Grade II Listed). The land is owned and managed by RDC, and the Amherst offices form part of the larger Town Hall complex that hosts a range of council services.”

“The building faces Amherst Road and is visible from the public realm. However, the proposed development is located at the rear of the building and can only be readily seen from within the private car park.”

“RR/2019/109/P Erection of new lift lobby extension and ramp to the rear of the finance building. APPROVED CONDITIONALLY 14- 03-2019”

“RR/88/0221/ Demolish outbuilding. Relocate Substation. Erect 4 storey building adjoining Town Hall. DEEMED GRANTED”

“The proposed development would result in the loss of one parking space, with a second space repositioned slightly further back into the car park to accommodate the new access arrangement. This is considered acceptable and would not significantly impact on the overall parking provision. There are sufficient parking spaces within the car park and overflow car park (immediately to the north of the main car park) to ensure an adequate provision at this time.”

“The proposal introduces a new accessible entrance from the car park, providing a ramped and level approach to the existing lift and thereby improving accessibility to the building for RDC staff and visitors.”

“It was commented that completing the works could be deemed wasteful, as the building might be sold as part of the 2028 Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution. The Chair stated that this was not a material planning consideration and should not be taken into account.”

“The Planning Committee agreed that the proposal would provide an accessible, ramped entrance from the car park to the Amherst building and lift. The Planning Committee therefore supported the officer’s recommendation, subject to the conditions outlined below.”

“Councillor Drayson moved the motion to GRANT (Full Planning Permission) subject to conditions and this was seconded by Councillor Stanger.”

“The motion was declared CARRIED (6 for / 2 abstained)”

“The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the following approved plans and details: Drawing No. (02525-PL-50), dated (21/10/25) Site Location Plan Drawing No. (02525-PL-150), dated (21/10/25) Proposed Block Plan Drawing No. (02525-PL-200), dated (06/10/25) Existing Ground & Roof Plans Drawing No. (02525-PL-225), dated (21/10/25) Proposed Ground & Roof Plans Drawing No.”

“NATIONAL PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK: In accordance with Paragraph 39 of the National Planning Policy Framework (2024), the Council has worked in a positive and pro-active way and has imposed planning conditions to enable the grant of planning permission.”