Self-build detached dwelling at Green Lane,, Challock, Ashford

“The application is being reported to the Planning Committee because one of the joint applicants is Noel Ovenden, who is the elected Member for Wye with Hinxhill Ward and Leader of the Council. Site and Surroundings 1. The application site is located on the western side of Green Lane, to the north of its junction with the A252 Canterbury Road which is at the western edge of Challock. The site is also located within the Kent Downs National Landscape. 2.”

“I give great weight to the need to conserve and enhance the landscape and scenic beauty of the Kent Downs National Landscape, and I am satisfied that the proposal would not cause material harm to its character or natural beauty. The application of the policies in the NPPF which protect the National Landscape does not therefore provide a strong reason for refusing the development under paragraph 11(d)(i). Paragraph 11(d)(ii) of the NPPF is consequently engaged.”

“In conclusion, notwithstanding the proposal’s limited conflict with the accessibility requirements in criterion (a) of Policy HOU5, I consider that the adverse planning impacts of the proposal would not significantly and demonstrably outweigh the planning benefits assessed against the policies of the NPPF taken as a whole.”

“- The proposal would provide a new family home and is considered to represent a carefully designed, small-scale development. - The proposed rainwater harvesting, water treatment, solar panels, battery storage and other energy-efficiency measures would reduce reliance on mains water and electricity supplies.”

“- The applicants have longstanding family connections with Challock and regularly travel to the village to care for an elderly relative and tend to horses; residing at the site would reduce these journeys. - The proposal is considered sustainable in social and environmental terms by enabling the applicants to live closer to an elderly family member. - The design is considered sympathetic to the surrounding area and responsive to local circumstances.”

“Subject to planning conditions and notes, including those dealing with the subject matters identified below (but not limited to that list) and those necessary to take forward stakeholder representations, with wordings and triggers to be revised as appropriate, with any ‘pre-commencement’ based planning conditions to have been the subject of the agreement process provisions effective 01/10/2018 and with delegated authority to the Head of Development Management and Enforcement…”

“Standard 3-year condition. 2. Approved Plans 3. External materials. 4. Parking and turning provision. 5. Electric vehicle charging. 6. Secure cycle storage and charging. 7. Refuse and recycling storage. 8. Prevention of surface-water discharge onto the highway. 9. Surface-water drainage. 10. Foul-water drainage. 11. Landscaping scheme and implementation. 12. Retention and protection of existing hedgerows. 13. Boundary treatments. 14. External lighting. 15.”