One detached dwelling at Land North of Fir Tree Farm, Riding Lane, Hildenborough

“Demolition of existing stables and erection of a detached dwelling (Self- build/custom build)”

“Description of Proposal: Planning permission is sought for the demolition of the existing stable building and the erection of a detached single storey, 3 bed dwelling. The proposed dwelling would be L shaped, approx. 19.5 metres in length x 8.5 metres (at its longest depth) x 4.9 metres to its maximum height. Access to the dwelling would be via the existing access track from Riding Lane leading to the site.”

“Hildenborough Parish Council has raised an objection to the proposal, if officers are minded to approve. The Site: The site is located to the east of Riding Lane and to the north of Riding Farm and contains a field and buildings for equestrian and ancillary storage use.”

“Part 1 Public 3.2 The site lies outside of any settlement boundary within the Metropolitan Green Belt and Countryside., To the northwest of the site is an area of Ancient woodland. Planning History (most relevant only): 24/01556/PA - Approved - 27 January 2025 Demolition of existing stables and erection of replacement stables…”

“23/00346/LDE - Certifies - 20 July 2023 Lawful Development Certificate Existing: Use of the buildings for equestrian and ancillary storage.”

“The proposal is for one dwelling which would be considered ‘limited infilling on previously developed land’ as such would comply with Paragraph 154 g) NPPF thus being appropriate development in the Green Belt. Parish Council comments in relation to the site being inappropriate development has been noted.”

“Part 1 Public 6.35 Therefore, to conclude on Para 155 criteria a), Officers are of the opinion that the site does not ‘strongly’ contribute to the three purposes of the Green Belt as set out above, as such the site would qualify as ‘Grey Belt’ land.”

“Members were reminded that the application had previously been resolved for approval subject to a Section 106 agreement relating to biodiversity net gain and conditions, but had returned to Committee for consideration of Policy SQ5 of the Managing Development and the Environment Development Plan Document in relation to potable water.”

“Due regard was given to the determining issues, conditions, reasons and informatives detailed in the report of the Director of Planning, Housing and Regulatory Services.”

“Councillor W Palmer (Chair) proposed, seconded by Councillor M Hood, and the Committee unanimously…”

“RESOLVED: That planning permission be GRANTED in accordance with the submitted details, conditions and reasons and informatives, as set out in the report of the Director of Planning, Housing and Environmental Health* on 16 October 2025, and the inclusion of a Section 106 agreement in relation to Biodiversity Net Gain.”