Access and landscaping for 14 flats at Her Majestys Court Service, Kettering

“Reserved Matters Application: Approval of Reserved Matters Access and Landscaping following grant of Outline Planning Permission NK/2024/0468 for conversion of existing building into 14 flats.”

“The vacant site was the former Crown Building situated in Kettering town centre. The construction of the building is a concrete frame and floors with pre-cast concrete mosaic faced cladding panels in bands between steel windows. It is a typical 1960's building which has now been subject to vandalism over a number of decades. Immediately opposite and adjacent are one and two bedroomed apartments in three storey buildings.”

“The NPPF at paragraph 57 requires conditions to only be imposed where they are: necessary, relevant to planning and to the development to be permitted, enforceable, precise and reasonable in all other respects. The PPG re-iterates this advice. It is considered that the proposed conditions, as set out below, meet the tests set out in the NPPF and the provisions of the PPG.”

“The proposed development complies with the relevant development plan policies and is consistent with the provisions in the NPPF specifically in relation to access and landscaping. In the absence of any material considerations of sufficient weight to the contrary, it is recommended that the reserved matters application be approved subject to conditions.”

“A full copy of all comments received can be found on the Council’s Website at https://publicaccess.northnorthants.gov.uk…”

“Consultation carried out with: Northamptonshire Police (Crime Prevention) NNC - Trans & Highways NNC - Environmental Health NNC - Trans & Highways Kettering Town Council…”

“Drawings showing the proposed access and access gates have been provided, the Local Highways Authority has raised no objections subject to waste and emergency service requirements. The access would have a minimum width of approximately 3.2m at the narrowest point which meets the standard for access through gateways as required by the Northamptonshire Fire Service and would also accommodate bin lorries should they need to access the site.”

“The site has a relatively small area available for landscaping - landscaping plans, and a planting schedule have been provided as part of the scheme. The proposed landscaping scheme is considered to be appropriate to the site and the surrounding area.”

“The chair thanked the officer for her report and invited members to ask any questions of clarity of the planning officer. Members asked for clarity that this only related to the landscaping and access, this was confirmed.”

“In summary members considered the application was good and appropriate and that the proposals would enhance the area.”

“The debate concluded and the chair put the motion to the vote which he declared carried unanimously.”

“RESOLVED that planning permission for reserved matters be granted, subject to the conditions contained within the report.”