Modular self-service laundrette at 6 - 12 Folkestone Road, Dover

“To the rear of the shop is a small hardsurfaced area bounded by a relatively high brick wall used for parking. The modular laundrette unit has already been constructed and is sited to the west of the rear area, adjacent to the junction between Effingham Street and Saxon Street.”

“This application seeks retrospective permission for a modular laundrette unit. The unit is proposed as a 24 hour self service laundrette facility. It comprises a modest scale, which extends slightly above the height of the adjacent rear brick wall and contains 2no. washing machines and 1no. drying machine. There is a canopy and glazed sides to the units to provide protection from the weather for users of the facility.”

“The 24-hour laundry facility results in noise and disturbance which is harmful to the residential amenities of the surrounding residential neighbours. • The introduction of this facility has increased footfall and noise close to residential dwellings, particularly during the evenings and late night hours which is intrusive. • Since the installation of these machines we have experienced instances of antisocial behaviour.”

“The site is located within the urban confines of Dover, located in close proximity to the town centre to the east. The site is surrounded on three sides by the Dover College Conservation Area and is located opposite the Listed row of dwellings on Saxon Street. Accordingly, the site falls within the setting of the Conservation Area and the adjacent Listed Buildings.”

“DOV/22/01226 – Installation of a self-service car wash bay with screens, relocation of parking bays and storage container – Refused…”

“DOV/22/00624 - Installation of a self-service car wash bay with screens, relocation of air/water, parking bays and storage container – Refused…”

“Overall, the proposed retrospective erection of a modular laundrette unit to the existing petrol station site within the urban confines of Dover is acceptable in principle and is considered to have an acceptable impact upon the character and appearance of the Conservation Area and setting of Listed Buildings, residential amenity and highways.”

“I PLANNING PERMISSION BE GRANTED, subject to the following condition:”

“Consultations and representations can be found in the online planning file, a summary is provided below: Environmental Protection – Raise no observations on this application.”

“Dover Society – There have been recent applications at this site for the installation of a car wash both of which were refused because of the impact on the amenity of nearby residents. This application also has the potential to be a noise nuisance to the nearby residents of Saxon Street. It is a 24 hour facility which is likely to be heavily used in the evenings.”

“The Committee viewed drawings, a plan and photographs of the application site which was situated within the settlement confines of Dover. The Senior Planner advised that retrospective planning permission was sought for the installation of a self-service laundrette facility and associated works. The laundrette was a modest structure and appeared ancillary to the host garage. It was largely screened by a wall and was not harmful to the area or nearby listed buildings.”

“RESOLVED: (a) That Application No DOV/25/00643 be APPROVED subject to the following condition:”

“(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.”