Up to 9 homes at Thaddeus Farm Main Street, Marston, Grantham

What was proposed

Outline permission was sought for up to nine dwellinghouses, with all matters reserved, on land connected with agriculture.

“This application is for outline planning permission with all matters reserved for the erection of up to 9 dwellings on land that has a use in connection with agriculture. It has been shown on the drawings that the site is capable of accessing an adoptable highway (Main Street), although details of access is a reserved matter. Relevant History…”

Officer report

The site

The 0.68-hectare farmyard lies within Marston’s built-up area, with existing development around it and access from Main Street.

“The application site is located on the western side of Main Street within the main built-up part of Marston village. The site area is approximately 0.68ha and comprises a number of modern outbuildings that form part of a farmyard. The site is accessed from Main Street via gap between existing residential development.”

Officer report

What residents said

Residents objected to effects on rural character, privacy, outlook, noise, light, ecology, infrastructure, highway safety and the scale of the proposal.

“Ecology mitigation and protection of birds (ie Swifts and migrant birds). • Loss of agricultural character of the site, site has had an agricultural use for over 80 years and is a defining feature of the villages rural identify. • The proposed redevelopment of the site should be sensitive, proportionate and reflective of the village’s longstanding rural contact and historical character.”

“Acorn Cottage lies 1 metre from the boundary hedge (owned by applicant) – requires confirmation of its retention is requested • Concerns regarding loss of residential amenity, including possible overlooking, loss of privacy and visual intrusion, loss of daylight and outlook, noise and disturbance and light pollution • Village infrastructure and sustainability of Marston – development would result in additional pressure to existing fragile infrastructure, including impact…”

Officer report

Who spoke

Residents spoke against the proposal, while the agent supported it and said detailed matters could be addressed later.

Members’ debate

Members discussed density, building height, drainage, foul-water capacity, policy, enforceable conditions and whether concerns could be considered at reserved matters stage.

“The comments received from Anglian Water in relation to this application were regarding the point in which foul drainage went into the Anglian Water network. However, they would be comfortable with a condition on dealing with foul water drainage as included within the schedule of conditions.”

“Members emphasised that concerns raised from residents could be brought back to the Committee at reserved matters stage.”

Minutes

The committee’s decision

The committee agreed to authorise the Assistant Director to grant planning permission subject to conditions, including drainage, archaeology, biodiversity and construction controls.

“It was proposed, seconded and AGREED to authorise the Assistant Director – Planning & Growth to GRANT planning permission subject to conditions:”

Minutes