Detached self-build bungalow at Diamond Cottage, Langdon Avenue, Ash

“The application site is located adjacent to the settlement confines of Ash within the garden of an existing 4 bedroom two storey dwelling known as Diamond Cottage. The footprint of the existing dwelling is located within the settlement boundary. The site is accessed off New Street via the unmade access road of Langdon Avenue. There is an existing vehicular access gate into the proposed site.”

“At present there is a small outbuilding at the front of the site in the southern corner; this is proposed to remain in situ. Planning permission is sought for a four bedroom 1.5 storey detached chalet bungalow to be built south-west of the existing dwelling within what is currently garden land. The application documents specify this will be a self-build dwelling to be occupied by the applicant and/or his immediate family.”

“DOV/25/00143 - Erection of a detached dwelling and garage (Self-build) (Existing dwelling/garage to be demolished) WITHDRAWN 16/05/2025”

“98/00187 Alterations to building to convert it back to a dwelling at Southwest end of Langdon Avenue Ash. REF Appeal dismissed…”

“Overall, the proposed self-build dwelling together with ancillary works, adjacent to the settlement confines, is acceptable in principle and is not considered to have a unacceptable impact on the heritage asset, visual and residential amenity, highways, ecology and drainage, subject to being secured as a self-build dwelling, the required SAAMs payment being paid and applicable conditions.”

“The proposal therefore complies with The Development Plan and guidance and the NPPF and as such it is recommended that planning permission be granted.”

“DDC Natural Environment Officer – The Preliminary Ecological Appraisal has been submitted by the applicant. The potential for ecological impacts is identified in the report(s) and recommendations for mitigation measures are also provided. No further ecological surveys are necessary at this time. Conditions are recommended to secure ecological avoidance and mitigation measures, and the incorporation of biodiversity enhancements within the development.”

“Subsequent comments on receipt of the Ecological Survey reaffirm objections and refer to policies ANP4 & ANP5 of the Ash Neighbourhood Plan.”

“Third party representations – 18 letters raising objection received, in summary:”

“Development outside of settlement confines ▪ Harm to listed building (The Shrubbery) ▪ Localised drainage problems will be exacerbated, extensive block paving ▪ Out of character to bungalows on opposite site of road, overbearing impact due to higher land level, over development of the site ▪ Unsympathetic materials ▪ Increase in traffic on the road, inadequate visibility splays onto New Road ▪ Pedestrian safety compromised as no footpath on Langdon Avenue and walkers use…”

“RESOLVED: (a) That, subject to the completion of a legal agreement in relation to self-build and SAMMS, Application No DOV/25/00144 be APPROVED subject to the following conditions:”

“(b) That powers be delegated to the Head of Planning and Development to settle any necessary planning conditions in line with the issues set out in the recommendation and as resolved by the Planning Committee.”