Air conditioning unit at 11 Kings Close, Henley-on-Thames

What was proposed

A retrospective application for an external air conditioning unit installed on the front elevation of a conservation area property.

“Retrospective application for the installation of an external air conditioning unit to the front elevation of the property. (Noise Impact assessment report received 16th January 2026; acoustic enclosure details received 25 February 2026)”

Minutes

Objections raised

The town council and neighbouring residents objected, citing the unit's impact on the street scene, the conservation area and noise.

“The planning officer reported that the Town Council and neighbouring residents had objected to the proposal, citing concerns regarding its impact on the street scene, the conservation area, and potential noise disturbance.”

Minutes

What consultees found

The council's Heritage Officer raised no objection, and Environmental Health accepted the noise assessment once an acoustic enclosure was added.

“Members were informed that the Council’s Heritage Officer had been consulted and had raised no objection, noting that the cul-de-sac made limited contribution to the area’s historic significance and that the site was not readily visible from key viewpoints.”

“It was confirmed that a noise assessment had been submitted and, following the introduction of mitigation measures, Environmental Health had raised no objection.”

Minutes

Impact on the conservation area

Officers judged the unit modest in scale and not unduly prominent, and found it preserved the conservation area's character.

“The planning officer advised that, although the site lay within a conservation area, the unit was modest in scale and, due to its siting and the property’s location at the end of the cul- de-sac, was not considered unduly prominent.”

“The planning officer concluded that the proposal preserved the character and appearance of the conservation area and would not result in unacceptable harm to the street scene or neighbouring amenity, and was therefore compliant with relevant planning policies.”

Minutes

Who spoke

A ward councillor spoke on the application.

What members debated

Members questioned when noise measurements were taken, how acceptable levels were set, and whether mitigation reduced noise sufficiently.

“Members asked whether the submitted noise measurements had been taken before or after installation of the acoustic enclosure. Officers confirmed that the measurements had been taken prior to the enclosure being installed.”

“Clarity was sought as to whether additional measurements had been undertaken following installation of the acoustic enclosure. Officers advised that no further measurements had been carried out; however, the Environmental Health Officer had reviewed the proposal and concluded that the enclosure would reduce noise levels to an acceptable standard.”

Minutes

What was decided

The committee approved the retrospective application subject to the approved plans and documents.

“A motion, moved and seconded, to approve the application was carried on being put to the vote.”

“RESOLVED: to approve planning application P25/S3630/HH subject to the following condition: Approved plans and documents…”

Minutes