Self-build house at Quercus, Common Lane, Holcombe, Radstock

Why officers recommended refusal

Officers found the site outside the settlement limits with rural character harm that would outweigh the benefits, recommending refusal.

“The Officer’s Report stated that this application site was largely outside of the development limits of Holcombe and had been used for growing plants and vegetables. It would not accord with the strict controls over development in the open countryside. The Officer’s Report recognised harms to the rural character and appearance of the area which would outweigh any benefits and was therefore recommended for refusal.”

Minutes

Who spoke

The applicant explained his personal circumstances and described the proposed home as eco-friendly and affordable.

Why the committee approved

Members approved as a departure, contrary to officer advice, finding no harm to rural character and that the benefits outweighed the harms of the location.

“Benefits of the scheme outweigh any harms identified • Personal need and family circumstances are not a planning consideration At the conclusion of the debate, Councillor Alistair Hendry proposed that the application be approved as a departure, contrary to the Officers recommendation. This was seconded by Councillor Dawn Denton.”

“RESOLVED That planning application 2025/0145/FUL be APPROVED as a departure from the development and contrary to the officer’s recommendation, as the scheme would not cause any harm to the rural character and/or appearance of the area and the benefits of the scheme were accepted to outweigh the harms associated with the site location which is just outside the defined settlement boundary for Holcombe.”

Minutes