Acoustic fence and security hoarding at Shalynn Cattery, Westcliff-on-Sea

“Planning permission is sought to erect a permanent acoustic boundary fence along the majority of the northern and part of the western boundaries of the site some 2.5m in maximum height. Plans detail this new boundary fence would be of a timber construction. The plans state that the new acoustic fence is to be constructed along or south of the existing fence-line to avoid any significant impact to the vegetation north of the site boundary.”

“The proposal also seeks planning permission for the erection of a temporary security timber hoarding to the majority of the southern boundary of the site (fronting Prince Avenue), and which will also wrap around the dwelling and part of its curtilage at No.569 Prince Avenue. The hoarding is some 2.4m in maximum height, made of timber and is described as “decorated” hoardings.”

“The site is a large area of hardstanding and undeveloped land which is presently overgrown with areas of open storage. It is largely screened by mature trees and hedging. The site adjoins and wraps around the rear of No.569 Prince Avenue. The site is currently served by an existing crossover from Prince Avenue to the south, located at the western side of the site’s frontage.”

“The wider surrounding area is predominantly residential in character to the south with some undeveloped land to the north of the A127 and commercial uses to the north-east of the Tesco roundabout. To the west of the site is the Millenium Open Space. The application site is not the subject of any site-specific planning policies or designations.”

“22/00868/DEM - Demolish outbuildings to rear (Application for Prior Approval for Demolition) – Prior Approval Granted.”

“25/00806/PREAPF - Demolish existing structure, provision of a maximum 35 two, three and four bed residential units to be used as social housing with parking – Pending.”

“- Queries and concerns regarding the purpose of the fence, its permanence, the height and the proposed intended future use of the site. - Acoustic fence will not suitably minimise noise on this site. - Queries and concerns relating to the loss of existing vegetation and trees. - Concerns relating to loss of habitat and wildlife. - Design concerns. Eyesore. - Residential amenity concerns including loss of outlook. Want to see greenery, not concrete.”

“Arboricultural Officer 5.4 No objections. The proposal seeks to erect a fence to 2.5m which will require the crown lifting of a number of trees and the selective pruning of others, the majority of which are low value. The level of pruning proposed is acceptable from an arboricultural viewpoint. Consideration should be given to ongoing maintenance of these trees as the installation will require increased pruning regimes.”

“That PLANNING PERMISSION be GRANTED subject to the following conditions:”

“The timber security hoarding as shown on the approved plan 1872/PL/1000_REV_B is granted for a temporary period of 4 years from the date of this permission. After 4 years from the date of the granting of this permission, the timber security hoarding hereby approved shall be removed from the site and the site returned to its pre-existing condition.”