Wild cat enclosure additions at Main Street, Strelley

“Purpose of the Report The application seeks planning permission for the variation of condition 1 of planning permission reference 21/00023/FUL to regularise the construction of a viewing / feeding balcony and lion platform within the wild cat enclosure. 2.”

“The application site contains a mixed use including equestrian and wild cat enclosure. Within the south of the site includes a ménage. In the centre of the site includes a stable block. To the north includes an extended wild cat enclosure.”

“The site is positioned to the north of the village of Strelley, with two residential dwellings adjoining the south boundary of the site. To the west of the site is the M1 motorway, with the boundary being made up of a substantial hedgerow which is in excess of 2m in height. The north and east boundary of the site is also made up of hedgerow and adjoins a bridleway. There is a further residential dwelling neighbouring the site to the northeast.”

“In 2021, planning application 21/00023/FUL was granted permission by the Planning Committee for the construction of a stable extension, lion’s den and 3m high internal fencing. This permission is subject to a unilateral undertaking whereby the owner undertakes the same obligations as listed above. This application comprised the extension to the originally approved wild cat enclosure 19/00243/FUL.”

“Previously planning permission was refused to vary condition 1 to regularise the works stated above (reference 22/00696/VOC). The application was refused by Planning Committee 7th June 2023 on the grounds that the proposed scheme, by virtue of its siting, size and design, is out of keeping with the area that creates a development at odds with its surroundings, to the detriment of the character and appearance of the area.”

“The application for the enclosure extension was granted permission in March 2021, having been approved by the Planning Committee. It was determined that VSC for the enclosure had been demonstrated due to the need to conserve the wild animals that inhabit it. The applicant has stated that the proposed balcony assists the safe feeding of animals, whilst the viewing platform helps to support the welfare of the animals on the site.”

“Overall it is considered that the proposed additions to the existing enclosure are reasonably minor and as such do not cause unacceptable harm to the openness of the Green Belt. In line with the decision to grant permission for the original enclosure, and the similar reasons given for the additions, it is considered that VSC have been generated that outweigh the limited harm to the openness of the Green Belt.”

“[name withheld], the applicant, made representation to the Committee prior to the general debate.”

“Having considered all the information before it the Committee debated the item, with particular reference the application being retrospective. It was also noted that the development would improve animal welfare.”

“RESOLVED that planning permission be granted subject to the prior completion of a unilateral undertaking under Section 106 of the Town and County Planning Act 1990 and conditions below:”

“Site Location Plan No. Rev. E (Received by the Local Planning Authority 07/08/24) Reason: For the avoidance of doubt. There shall be no general exhibition or viewing of the animals. Reason: To protect nearby residents from excessive disturbance or operational nuisance in accordance with Policy 17 - Place-making, Design and Amenity of the Broxtowe Local Plan Part 2. The site shall not be floodlit or illuminated in any way.”