Self-build bungalow at Bassetts Lane, Woodham Walter

What was proposed

The application sought to end campsite use and build a detached two-bedroom self-build bungalow with landscaping and parking.

“Planning permission is sought for the cessation of use of the land as a campsite and construction of a detached 2 bedroom bungalow with associated landscaping and parking.”

Officer report

The site

The site lies between existing homes outside the settlement boundary, in open countryside with hedgerows, planting and agricultural fields nearby.

“The application site is located to the western side of Bassetts Lane on a parcel of land situated between the residential properties of Elwy Cottages and Barrow Cottage. There are sporadic residential dwellings which extend along Bassetts Lane in a linear pattern, in a variety of sizes and architectural styles.”

“The site lies outside of any defined settlement boundary and within the open countryside, albeit due to its position relative to surrounding development the site is considered to be semi-rural in character – with residential properties extending to the north and south along both sides of the road - and a wide expanse of open agricultural fields to the west.”

Officer report

Earlier applications

Previous proposals included holiday lets, buildings, holiday accommodation and campsite use, with decisions including refusals, appeals and prior approval not required.

“Application Ref Description Decision 09/00163/FUL Convert barn into six holiday lets with associated external alterations Refused 09/00791/FUL Convert barn into four holiday lets with associated external alterations Refused.”

“Withdrawn 24/00362/PN Prior notification of a temporary recreational campsite on the following dates 25-28th May, 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 21- 23, 28 - 30th June, 5-7, 12-14, 19-21, 26-28th July, 2-4, 9-11, 16-18, 22-31st August and 1, 6-8, 13-15, 20 -22, 27- 29th September 2024. Prior Approval Not Required…”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended approval because the scheme was considered acceptable despite its countryside location, with no significant harm to design, neighbours, highways or ecology.

“As explained within the report, although the location of the development being outside of any settlement boundary would be contrary to Policy S8 of the LDP, options do exist for bus services to the end of Bassetts Lane to reach facilities further afield.”

“The design and materials of the proposed development are considered acceptable and would comprise a sensitive “limited infill” style development that is in keeping with the local area both in terms of scale and architectural design. It is considered that a dwelling at the site would not result in any harm in terms of residential…”

Officer report

Who spoke

The officer presented the application, followed by an agent who addressed the committee.

Committee discussion

A councillor said the proposal was unsustainable and poorly designed, but the refusal motion was not seconded; members then discussed design.

“Councillor S J Morgan then stated that they did not think the application was sustainable or of good design, and proposed that the Committee refuse the application. This was not seconded.”

“Discussion over the design of the application then ensued. Following this Councillor R H Siddall proposed that the application be approved. This was duly seconded.”

Minutes

The vote

A proposal to approve was seconded and passed when put to a vote.

“Upon a vote being taken the proposal passed and the application was approved…”

Minutes

The decision

The application was approved subject to conditions covering commencement, approved plans, materials, drainage, parking, travel information, biodiversity, lighting and future alterations.

“The materials used in the construction of the development hereby approved shall be as set out within the application form/approved plans and supporting statement.”

“Prior to installation of any external lighting, a lighting design scheme for biodiversity shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the local planning authority. The scheme shall identify how lighting impacts will be avoided upon the Essex Estuaries SAC and the Crouch and Roach Estuaries SPA, Ramsar & SSSI and show how and where external lighting will be installed (through the provision of appropriate lighting plans, drawings and technical specifications) so that it…”

Minutes