Dwelling design changes at Top Road, Westbury-sub-Mendip, Wells

What was proposed

The application altered elements of the approved dwelling design, with updated plans retaining the existing hedgerow and screening.

“2022/1945/REM and 2024/1680/APP to alter various elements of the approved design of the dwelling as well as incorporating the previously approved details of the construction environmental management plan as a compliance condition.”

“Updated plans had been received, which clarified that the existing hedge row and screening would now be retained. Officers did not consider these changes to be substantive and the application, along with the updates, was on the agenda for consideration.”

Minutes

Why officers recommended approval

Officers did not consider the changes substantive and recommended permission be granted subject to conditions.

“The Report recommended that planning permission be granted subject to conditions.”

Minutes

Objections and support

The Parish Council and an objector raised visual impact, hedgerow removal and dark skies, while a supporter said hedgerows would not be removed.

“Westbury-sub-Mendip Parish Council objected to the application on the grounds it was outside of development limits, its visual impact on the Mendip Hills National Landscape, the removal of the boundary hedgerow and trees, visibility splays not previously shown, that the proposal was more pronounced than previously, and the impact of the proposal on dark skies.”

“There was one speaker in support of the application. He asked the Committee to note the existing planning permission. He said the applicant was making minor changes to it and hoped the changes would lessen the impact the development would have on the countryside including its impact on dark skies. He said there was no intention to remove hedgerows or trees.”

Minutes

Who spoke

A Parish Councillor and a Division Member reiterated landscape concerns, and the agent said the revised design using timber would be less harmful.

What members debated

Members discussed the countryside impact, hedgerow height, spot levels and conditions for automatic blinds to protect dark skies.

“During the discussion, the following points were raised:”

“There was concern the development should not have a detrimental impact on the countryside. Members noted the development could not easily be seen because it was in a quarry on three sides. However, they noted the western side was visible. • Members noted a lot of the vegetation had already been cleared. • Members were interested in whether the hedgerow could be made 4 metres high. Particularly on the western side.”

Minutes