Office and residential development at Derbyshire County Council County Hall, Matlock

Site and surroundings

The site is in a sustainable location within walking distance of local and town-centre facilities, within a listed building’s setting and the conservation area.

“The site is situated in a sustainable location, within walking distance of local and town centre facilities and NPPF policies S3 and S4 steers towards approving development proposals on the basis of the presumption in favour of sustainable development provided the benefits of doing so would be substantially outweighed by any adverse effect. In this case there would be no substantial adverse impacts in relation to S3 2 a. 2 b. and 2 c.”

“In summary, the proposals are to be sited within the setting of a listed building and the Matlock Bank conservation area. Officers are satisfied that the development of up to 50no dwellings and office accommodation can be accommodated at the site without causing harm to the heritage assets provided the general guidance and parameters set in the submitted Design Codes is adhered to.”

Officer report

Traffic and parking

The main highway concern was whether enough parking would be available, but officers found no highway or safety impacts warranting refusal.

“The primary concern of the LHA relates to car parking and whether sufficient space will be available for the entire development once completed. The phasing of construction works also needs to be considered as this will have implications for the availability of car parking, as space will be required for a constructor compound. To this end, a phasing of the development has been suggested which would involve the development proceeding in the following order: i.”

“Notwithstanding the LHA concerns relating to car parking, it is considered that there are no highway network or safety impacts that would warrant refusing the application. The applicant has offered measures that could reduce car movements, travel plan and mobility hub. Ultimately, the LHA has offered no objections subject to the imposition of planning conditions and planning obligations.”

Officer report

Who spoke

Two agents spoke in support, and the ward member and county councillor also spoke in support.

Members’ questions

Members asked about the expected standard of hotel accommodation and whether local residents would retain access to the grounds.

“During questions Members sought clarification on the following:”

“The anticipated standard of the proposed hotel accommodation. • Whether the grounds would remain accessible to local residents.”

Minutes

The vote

Councillors Hughes and Buttle moved and seconded the motion, which was agreed unanimously.

“It was moved by Councillor Hughes, seconded by Councillor Buttle and…”

Minutes

The decision

Permission was granted subject to conditions and a legal agreement, with delegated authority to approve necessary amendments.

“That permission be granted subject to the conditions and s106 agreement with delegated authority to the Director of Places and Economy to approve any amendments to those conditions as deemed necessary.”

Minutes