1.8m timber fence at 1 Braeheads, Whitehills

What was proposed

The application sought permission for a 1.8-metre grey timber fence, 8.7 metres long, along the southern boundary of the property.

“This application is seeking full planning permission for the erection of fence at 1 Braeheads, Whitehills. The application site is located within the settlement of Whitehills and within the Whitehills Conservation Area as defined by the Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan 2023 (ALDP). Sea towns, such as Whitehills, within fishing villages along the north east coast comprise closely spaced dwellings and site curtilages are traditionally compact in nature.”

“The existing dwelling associated with this application is a traditional 1 and ½ storey property sited within a row of traditional fishermen’s cottages. The open curtilage off the south elevation comprises a small area bound by a 1.2m metre high masonry wall along the southern boundary and by the applicant’s dwellinghouse along the eastern and northern boundaries. The western boundary is open to the existing street scene.”

Officer report

Earlier applications

A dormer extension at the application property and works including a wall and fence at a neighbouring property were previously approved.

“APP/2021/1480 (FPP) – Dormer Extension and Installation of 2 Velux Rooflights – Approved / 18-08-2021”

“APP/2021/1076 (FPP) - Alterations and Extension to Dwellinghouse, Erection of Wall and Fence – Approved / 07-07-2021”

Officer report

Why officers recommended refusal

Officers considered the timber fence unsuitable for the conservation area and inconsistent with policies protecting design, historic assets and boundary character.

“Given that the dwelling is located within the Whitehills Conservation Area, consideration for the application must be weighed against the criteria ALDP Policy HE2 Protecting Historic, Cultural and Conservation Areas and NPF4 Policy 7 Historic Assets and Places.”

“To conclude, this proposal is considered by the planning authority to not comply with the with the Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan 2023 and the National Planning Framework 4. Whilst the siting of the proposal does not directly impact on the amenity of neighbouring properties, given the material finish (timber fencing) and resultant appearance would be at odds with the traditional character of its surroundings coupled with its prominent location it is considered…”

Officer report

Consultation and representations

Built Heritage objected that timber fencing would be alien to the conservation area and could create an unfavourable precedent; no valid public representations were received.

“The Built Heritage Team note the existing boundary wall falls outwith the ownership of the applicant and that they’re reluctant to construct a separate masonry wall on account of the additional expense when compared with the erection of a basic timber fence.”

“The applicant should be advised to revisit their proposal and construct a wall to avoid setting an unfavourable precedent in the Whitehills Conservation Area. A masonry structure that accords with Policy 7d of National Planning Framework 4 and Policies HE2.1 & HE2.2 of the 2023 Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The Senior Planner introduced the application, the applicant’s agent addressed the committee, and a planner attended to answer questions.

What members debated

Members questioned the site’s prominence, the use of timber, nearby fencing and whether the fence colour could be controlled.

“Members commented on the conservation aspect of fence, noting that nearby properties included timber structures and fencing. They expressed difficulty in understanding how the application site was considered a prominent location or why timber was regarded as an alien material. Members also queried whether the proposed colour of the fence could be conditioned.”

“The Planner provided clarification to Members on the historic use of timber, noting it was traditionally used for structural elements within the buildings and was not originally used for boundary treatments. He explained that the boundaries were typically constructed in masonry due to the close proximity of properties and concerns regarding the spread of fire.”

Minutes

The committee’s decision

The committee granted permission as a departure from policy, considering privacy, nearby timber fences and the site’s secluded location.

“Following discussion, the Committee agreed to grant Full Planning Permission, delegated to the Head of Planning and Economy, subject to appropriate conditions including paint colour of the fence, and as a departure from policy.”

“Members concluded that the application partially complied with the Development Plan in respect of Aberdeenshire Local Development Plan 2023 Policy P1 (Layout, Siting and Design) and Policy 3 (Infill Developments within Settlements and Householder Developments).”

Minutes

The agreed condition

Permission was delegated for issue subject to appropriate conditions, including prior approval of the fence’s colour finish.

“Members also agreed to add a condition requiring the prior approval of the Planning Service of the details of the proposed fence colour finish.”

Minutes