Two custom-build homes at Land off Bretby Road, Burton-on-Trent

What was proposed

The application sought outline permission for two detached custom-build homes, with access considered now and layout, scale, appearance and landscaping reserved.

“Proposal: Outline application (matters of access to be considered now with matters of layout, scale, appearance and landscaping reserved for later consideration) for the Erection of 2no. Detached Custom-Build Dwellings at Land off Bretby Road, Burton-on-Trent, DE15 0PT Ward: Repton Reason for committee determination This has been called to committee by Councillor Haines due to Local concern about a particular issue and it is considered that the committee should debate the…”

“The land falls within Grade 3 Agricultural Land. Adjoining the boundary to the entrance to the site, to the east and to the south are mature hedgerows. The proposal The proposal is for an outline application with all matters reserved except for access for the erection of two custom-build dwellings. The application site is to be accessed via Bretby Road.”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended approval because they considered the site grey belt infill, with acceptable access, limited amenity effects and at least 10% biodiversity gain.

“Thus, it is considered that the countryside is safeguarded from further encroachment therefore it is considered that the land is classed as grey belt development with the limited infill that is proposed and existing hedgerow preventing further development to the south of the site. In accordance with Policy SDT1, the application is located outside of any settlement boundary and therefore is to be considered using Policy BNE5 of the Adopted Local Plan.”

“It is considered that the proposal has demonstrated that the matter of access is acceptable for an outline development for two dwellings, with no objections from the Highways Authority and sufficient space within the site for parking. Based on the indicative layout it has been shown that the development could be undertaken without harm to neighbouring amenity and can integrate with the character and appearance of the surroundings, subject to the final design.”

Officer report

Who spoke

An objector, the applicant’s agent and two councillors addressed the committee about highway safety, conditions, views, Green Belt land and self-build housing.

What members debated

Members heard that views were not a planning consideration and that the proposal offered an opportunity for self-build custom homes.

“Councillor D Muller addressed the Committee on behalf of Local Ward Member, Councillor K Haines who raised concerns regarding highway safety, the need for robust conditions and noted the finely balanced planning consideration between Greybelt and Greenbelt land.”

“Councillor D Corbin noted that views were not a planning consideration and that the proposal gave a much-needed opportunity for self-build custom homes.”

Minutes

The committee’s decision

The committee approved permission in line with the officer recommendation, updating the access plan and requiring a biodiversity good-practice statement before occupation.

“RESOLVED: That planning permission be approved as per the recommendations in the report of the Head of Planning, subject to amendments to condition 2 updating the plan revision number and condition 20 to include the requirement to produce a statement of good practice.”

Minutes