Church auditorium extension at Horley Baptist Church, Horley

“This is a full application for the erection of a new auditorium worship space (Planning Use Class F1) by extending the existing Horley Baptist Church. The proposed auditorium would seat 320 unfixed seats on one level and ancillary support space.”

“Planning permission was granted in 2012 (ref: 11/02187/F) for demolition of an existing school and caretaker's building and the erection of a care home and church with access, car parking and landscaping arrangements. The first part of the church and care home (Amherst Care Home adjacent) were constructed, with the auditorium part intended to be constructed under ‘phase two’ of the development, to accommodate 320 seats on two levels.”

“Horley Town Council: No objections, however as the current car park will not be extended, HTC has concerns over the impact on parking in local roads as the enhanced facility will attract a greater number of attendees. HTC also presumes that the applicant will be required to submit a travel plan.”

“SCC Ecology: no objection in relation to BNG – conditions required…”

“Issue Response Loss of a private view This is not a material planning consideration Overbearing relationship and loss of outlook See paragraph 6.7 Overshadowing See paragraph 6.7 Inadequate parking See paragraph 6.8 – 6.13 Increase in traffic and congestion See paragraph 6.8 – 6.13 Hazard to highway safety See paragraph 6.8 – 6.13 Overdevelopment See paragraph 6.6”

“Parking, transport and drainage matters were discussed. Members noted the 34 parking spaces allocated to the church currently which would not increase. They welcomed arrangements proposed in the report for the use of nearby Manorfields School parking facilities on Sundays. Officers noted that this would be reflected in the updated Travel Plan in view of the additional parking arrangement to manage parking demand as well as a condition for secure cycle parking.”

“Concerns were raised regarding the potential impact of additional numbers to church services such as funerals which could lead to increased traffic and parking issues along the road. Members felt this could be a problem during church services and events held during the week or during school hours when access to school parking might be restricted.”

“RESOLVED that planning permission be GRANTED subject to conditions as set out in the report’s recommendation and addendum.”

“In addition: Members requested an additional informative advising the applicant to investigate alternative parking arrangements for weekday use of the church when the arrangement with the school is not possible.”