One self-build dwelling at Land At Ethans Orchard Middle, Chedworth

What was proposed

Permission in Principle was sought for one self-build dwelling.

“Permission in Principle for the erection of 1 self-build dwelling at Land at Ethans Orchard Middle Chedworth Gloucestershire GL54 4AL”

Officer report

The site

The site is part of a paddock outside but adjoining Chedworth, within its conservation area, the National Landscape and a listed building’s setting.

“The application site consists of part of a paddock, within which is also a modest area of hardstanding and a shed. The site lies outside of, but adjoining, the village of Chedworth which constitutes a Non-Principal Settlement as designated in the Cotswold District Local Plan 2011-2031.”

“The site lies within the Chedworth Conservation Area, and within the setting of 'Peach Tree Cottage and Studio' a grade II listed building to the west of the site. The site also lies within the Cotswolds National Landscape and the 15.4km Zone of Influence of the Cotswold Beechwoods Special Area of Conservation (SAC).”

Officer report

Earlier applications

Earlier proposals for cottages, a driveway and dwellings were refused or withdrawn, including an appeal dismissal.

“02/01726/FUL - Erection of 4 terraced cottages - Refused 30/09/2002;”

“06/01833/FUL - Change of use of paddock to domestic use to enable formation of driveway and associated hardstanding - Refused 09/10/2006. Appeal Dismissed 27/07/2007;”

Officer report

Who spoke

An objector raised landscape and legal concerns, while the applicant described proposed enhancement, drainage improvements and an innovative energy-efficient home.

Members’ debate

Members questioned whether an acceptable design could be secured and discussed hedges, openness, the village pattern, views and the prominence of the eastern site.

“Member Questions Members asked questions of the officers, which were responded to in the following way: • If permission was granted, the applicant must submit a technical details application, which could return to committee if ward members request it. • The Council cannot control the existing hedges indefinitely.”

“Member Comments In discussing the application, Members made the following comments: • The existing hedge was being used as a bargaining tool and granting Planning in Principle on the left-hand side could result in unacceptable development. • Members questioned whether an acceptable design could be achieved, noting that features like a grass roof alone would not address broader impacts.”

Minutes

The committee’s decision

Members voted to refuse because the dwelling would harm the conservation area and National Landscape, with that harm not outweighed by public benefits.

“Councillor Julia Judd proposed to REFUSE the application against the Case Officer’s recommendations and Councillor David Fowles seconded the proposal. Reasons for refusal included:”

“The site lay within the Chedworth Conservation Area, which required special attention to preserve or enhance its character. • The site provided a valuable open space which linked the village to surrounding agricultural land and reinforced the village’s development pattern, with differences in density across the site. • A dwelling with domestic paraphernalia would materially alter the character and appearance, causing harm to the conservation area.”

Minutes