Self-build house at Land At Hayes Road, Compton Dundon, Somerton

Objections

Residents and the Parish Council objected, citing the Ramsar site designation, flood risk, scale and harm to rural character.

“Natural England has identified the site as a Ramsar site, and it is described as a site of immense national involvement, with the richest lowland landscape in the UK. It is unique and should be maintained, preserved and protected for generations to come, not built on. • The site lies across flood zones and flooding is already a significant problem, especially during winter months.”

“A representative from Compton Dundon Parish Council spoke against the application, echoing all of the points made by the public speakers.”

Minutes

The applicant's case

The applicant said the self-build home would be energy efficient, screened by mature trees and keep most of the land agricultural.

What members debated

Members weighed landscape harm against mitigating conditions and whether refusal would be defendable at appeal.

“The site sits within the Somerset Levels and Moors Ramsar site. • The whole of England is a National Character Area. • Whilst the site is on a flood zone, The Environment Agency has not been consulted because it does not meet their consultation criteria. • The Internal Drainage Board have been consulted and raised no objections to a number of conditions.”

“During the debate members discussed the public speakers’ objections with a particular on the harms to the landscape and rural character of Compton Dundon, and some members questioned whether the benefits of one dwelling should outweigh these harms. Others felt that refusal of the application on these grounds would not be defendable at appeal because the conditions that have been agreed will mitigate the harms.”

Minutes

The decision

The application was approved as per the officer's recommendations, carried by 6 votes to 3, subject to conditions and a legal agreement securing the self-build.

“At the conclusion of the debate, Cllr Wale proposed to approve the planning application as per the officer’s recommendations, and this was seconded by Cllr Stanton. When put to the vote the proposal was carried by 6 in favour, 3 against and 0 abstentions.”

Minutes