Three dwellings at Land At 2 Saham Road, Watton

What was proposed

The application sought three dwellings: one detached three-bedroom home and two semi-detached three-bedroom homes.

“The proposal seeks permission for the development of the former gas works site to provide 3no dwellings.”

“Plot 1 – Two storey, 3 bed Plot 2 and 3 (semi-detached) two storey, 3 bed…”

Officer report

The site and its history

The site is a former gas works site within the settlement boundary, beside the Watton Conservation Area, with an earlier remediation permission.

“The site lies inside the Watton Settlement Boundary and is the site of the former gas manager’s house, the gable ends of which are decorative and prominent in the street scene. The gas works building itself lies inside the Watton Conservation Area, with the majority of the development site sited outside, but adjacent. The site is surrounded by a mix of residential dwellings and fronts onto Harvey Street and High Street.”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended approval because the proposal was acceptable in principle and in design, amenity, highway, heritage, ecology and tree terms, subject to conditions.

“The site lies inside the Watton Settlement Boundary therefore, the principle of new residential development is considered acceptable, subject to other factors detailed below.”

“In light of the above factors, the proposal is considered acceptable in design and character terms, in accordance with the above mentioned policies.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

The town council objected to the front dwelling’s visual impact, while specialist consultees raised no objection subject to conditions or revisions.

“Town Council Watton Town Council is of the opinion the proposed 3rd dwelling at the front of the site will have a negative visual impact on a non-designated Heritage Asset.”

“Contaminated Land Officer No objection subject to conditions.”

Officer report

Who spoke

Representations were made under the committee’s public speaking scheme, with a ward representative, the applicant and the agent listed.

Committee consideration

Members considered the application and explored its details against relevant policies and guidance.

“Consideration was given to the report presented by Lisa O’Donovan, Senior Development Management Planner.”

“Members considered the matter and fully explored the details of the application in light of prevailing policies and guidance.”

Minutes

The vote

Members voted unanimously to approve the application in line with the officer recommendation.

“DECISION: Members voted unanimously with the officer’s recommendation of approval.”

Minutes