Entrance and parking works at The Darwin Laboratory Building 900 Chesterford Park Little Chesterford Saffron Walden

“The application seeks planning permission for proposed minor works to the existing building entrance, including replacement lobby structure and canopy, revised parking configuration and external paving. The proposed works include:”

“Replacement of the front entrance lobby, with a small footprint increase, and introduction of a canopy. Associated alterations to the pedestrian access, minor reconfiguration of existing car parking spaces. A section of the existing curtain walling to be converted to a door to facilitate access from a communal area internally to the grassed amenity space externally…”

“The application site is within Chesterford Research Park. It is known as Building 900 (Darwin Building), and it is a purpose-built laboratory research facility built circa 2005. It is built over ground, first and second floor (plant room) comprising c.33,000 square feet gross internal area. Most recently the building has been solely occupied by AstraZeneca.”

“The Research Park offers high-standard laboratory and office spaces within a serene parkland setting.”

“There is a significant amount of planning history for the site and the surrounding area, however, none of which is particularly relevant to the proposals.”

“No pre-application discussions were undertaken between the Applicant and the Council prior to the submission of the Application.”

“The proposals are appropriate in respect to their design and appearance and would not result in harm to amenities enjoyed by adjoining users or to the significance and setting of the character of the area.”

“The proposals have been assessed against the relevant policies contained within the Development Plan and the NPPF. It has been concluded that they comply and in accordance with these policies and guidance. In conclusion, it has been found that the proposals are acceptable and thus are recommended for approval subject to conditions.”

“No comments were received at the time of the officer’s assessment.”

“The application was notified by displaying a site notice and sending letters to adjoining and adjacent occupiers. No representations have been received at the time of this assessment.”

“The Planning Officer presented the report which proposed minor works to the existing building entrance which included replacing the existing lobby structure and canopy and the revision of existing parking configuration and external paving.”

“Councillor Pavitt proposed approval of the application, this was seconded by Councillor Freeman.”

“RESOLVED that the Strategic Director of Planning be authorised to grant permission for the development subject to the conditions set out in section 16 of the report.”