Three flagpoles at International House, Dover Place, Ashford

“The application seeks advertisement consent for the installation of three flagpoles, all of which would each be eight metres high. The flagpoles would fly the Union Jack, the Ashford Borough flag, and other ABC-approved flags.”

“During the course of the application, the applicant confirmed that the ‘ABC- approved’ flags would include those to represent Armed Forces Day, Merchant Navy Day, and VE Day.”

“The application site comprises International House, a multi-storey building located opposite Ashford International Train Station, within the built confines of Ashford.”

“The site is close to the town centre, and a number of other services, and is not within any designated landscape areas.”

“The following is relevant relating to the application;”

“In light of the above assessment, it is considered that the proposal to erect three flagpoles and associated flags would comply with the requirements of the relevant Development Plan policies and Central Government guidance. It is therefore recommended that advertisement consent is granted.”

“Permit Subject to the following Conditions and Notes: (with delegated authority to the Strategic Development and Delivery Manager or Planning Applications & Building Control Manager to make or approve changes to the planning conditions (for the avoidance of doubt including additions, amendments and deletions) as she/he sees fit).”

“The main considerations in the determination of this application are visual amenity, residential amenity and highway safety.”

“The proposed flags are considered to be sufficiently set back from the highway so as not to cause a distraction to motor vehicle users. Furthermore, the flags would not have any impact on the nearby parking area, or the site access. As such, it is considered that it would not be detrimental to the highway safety of the site or the surrounding road network.”

“17 Neighbours were consulted but no letters of representation were received.”

“The application was advertised by site notice but no letters of representation were received.”

“Advertisement consent for the Installation of 3 x 8-metre-high flagpoles in the frontage of International House for Ashford Borough Council use. Flags to be flown would be the Borough flag, Union Jack and other ABC-approved flags…”