23-dwelling conversion at 26-32 Gainsborough House, Pegler Way, West Green, Crawley

What was proposed

The application sought retrospective permission to convert part of an existing development from offices into 23 residential units with associated storage and parking.

“Retention of development comprising the conversion of part ground, first and second floors to 23 dwellings with associated car parking, cycle and refuse storage (amended description).”

“The Acting Principal Planning Officer provided a verbal summation of the application, which sought retrospective planning permission for the conversion of part of an existing development in West Green from office space to residential units. The officer then gave details of the various relevant planning considerations as set out in the report.”

Minutes

Who spoke

The agent spoke in support, citing the retrospective circumstances, policy compliance, unit mix, affordable housing agreement and sustainable town-centre location.

What members discussed

Members discussed the absence of on-site affordable housing, the agreed £100,000 off-site contribution and whether the town-centre location could result in high prices.

“The Committee then considered the application. Committee members thanked officers for their work in attempting to secure affordable housing on site but expressed disappointment that this had not been provided. Officers explained that an independently verified viability report confirmed that the provision was not viable due to the layout of the development so an off-site contribution of £100,000 had instead been agreed.”

Minutes

The vote

The recommendation was moved by the Chair and seconded by the Vice-Chair before the committee reached its resolution.

“The Committee then moved to a vote on the recommendation set out in the report. The recommendation was moved by Councillor Rana as the Chair and seconded by Councillor Bidwell as the Vice-Chair.”

Minutes

The decision

The committee delegated the decision to permit to the Head of Economy and Planning, subject to a Section 106 agreement and the stated conditions.

“Delegate the decision to permit to the Head of Economy and Planning, subject to the conclusion of a Section 106 agreement and the conditions set out in report PES/503c.”

Minutes