Two detached houses at Site Of Former Knowle Croft, 72 Camp Road, Gerrards Cross

What was proposed

The application proposed two detached houses and garages, changes to the existing access, hardstanding and landscaping.

“Application Number: PL/25/4711/FA Proposal: Construction of two detached dwellinghouses and garages together with alterations to existing vehicular access and associated hardstanding and landscaping works.”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended conditional permission because the proposal would provide sustainable development and make effective use of land without significant identified harm.

“Paragraph 11 of the NPPF sets out the presumption in favour of sustainable development which for decision taking means approving development proposals that accord with an up-to-date development plan without delay; or where there are no relevant development plan policies, or the policies which are most important for determining the application are out of-date, granting permission unless the application of policies in the NPPF that protect areas or assets of particular…”

Officer report

Design and neighbours

Officers considered the layout, density, Georgian design, separation distances and privacy measures would maintain local character and protect neighbouring amenity.

“Therefore, it is considered that the proposed development complies with Local Plan Policies EP3 and H10, the NPPF and Gerrards Cross Neighbourhood Plan. Amenity of existing and future residents Local Plan Saved Policies: EP3 (The use, design and layout of development) EP5 (Sunlight and daylight) H9 (Residential development and layout) 4.18 In terms of impacts upon residential amenities, sufficient separation distances are proposed to either existing neighbouring dwelling…”

Officer report

Consultation responses

The town council objected on character grounds, while highways and ecology raised no objections subject to conditions and trees supported replacement planting.

“Parish/Town Council Comments Gerrards Cross Town Council has an objection to this planning application on the grounds that it is out of character of the street scene.”

“Trees: The proposal involves the removal of two trees that are currently protected under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). Their removal is justified on the basis of their limited remaining life expectancy. No further arboricultural impacts are anticipated as a result of the proposed works. Should planning permission be granted, it is recommended that a replacement planting scheme be secured by condition.”

Officer report

Objections raised

Objections concerned plot subdivision, estate character, design, Policy H10, parking, traffic and a covenant restricting subdivision.

“Representations -Applicant could set a precedent for the subdivision of plots, enabling smaller dwellings to be built on plots. -Fundamentally altering the character of the estate. -Proposal would contravene Policy H10. -The design, scale and appearance of the proposed houses does not fit in with the architectural character of the surrounding houses. -The spacious residential area of exceptional character and beauty will start to be ruined.”

Officer report

Who spoke

A ward member, a town council representative and the applicant’s representative spoke at the meeting.

The committee vote

Members voted in favour of conditional permission on a proposal by Cllr Roberts, seconded by Cllr Harris.

“Members voted in favour of the motion to approve the application, in accordance with the Officer’s recommendation of: Conditional permission.”

“It was proposed by Cllr M Roberts and seconded by Cllr C Harris.”

Minutes

The decision

The application was approved with conditional permission in accordance with the officer recommendation.

“RESOLVED: That the application be approved.”

Minutes