Self-build replacement dwelling at Fig Tree House, Otford Lane, Halstead

What was proposed

The application sought to demolish, rebuild and extend a stable block into a dwelling with solar panels, parking and landscaping.

“- 25/01070/FUL Revised expiry date 21 July 2025 Proposal: Demolition/rebuild and extension of existing stable block to a dwelling with Solar panels and associated works including parking. Landscaping.”

Officer report

The site and its setting

The site is a former stable and storage area south of Otford Lane, with neighbouring properties to the north, east and south.

“Further guidance for applicants, including information about how to clarify the highway boundary and links to application forms for vehicular crossings and other highway matters, may be found on Kent County Council's website: https://www.kent.gov.uk/roads-and- travel/highway-permits-and-licences/highways-permissions-and-technical-guidance. Alternatively, KCC Highways and Transportation may be contacted by telephone: 03000 418181.”

“There are neighbouring properties to the north, east and south of the site.”

Officer report

Who addressed the committee

The committee heard from speakers against and for the application, a parish representative and a local member.

What members discussed

Members considered the Green Belt location, the additional roof height, the cluster of similarly sized properties and landscaping conditions.

“Questions of clarification were asked of the Speakers and Officers. In response to questions, Members were advised that as the built form of the development did not extend towards further towards the Green Belt and the location of the property was classed as grey belt due to it being classed as previously developed land, it was not considered to be substantial harm to the Green Belt.”

“Members discussed the report giving consideration to the additional 0.5m in roof height, whilst noting it was within a cluster of similar sized properties. Members also discussed landscaping conditions.”

Minutes

The committee’s decision

The committee granted planning permission subject to the recommended conditions and an additional removal of specified permitted development rights.

“It was moved by the Chairman from the Chair that the recommendations within the report and an additional to remove permitted development rights for schedule 2, part 1 class AA of the General Permitted Development Order 2015 (as amended.)”

“Resolved: That planning permission be granted subject to the following conditions:”

Minutes

Extra protection added

The additional condition removed specified permitted development rights to safeguard the area’s visual amenity and Green Belt openness.

“16) For the removal of Permitted Development rights for Schedule 2, Part 1 Class A-A of the Town and County Planning General Permitted Development Order 2015, as amended.”

“To safeguard the visual amenity of the area and openness of the Green Belt.”

Minutes