Bin store and utility buildings at Green Energy Hub Chesterford Park, Little Chesterford

“PROPOSAL: Proposed installation of bin store, together with related landscaping, tree planting and associated development. Section 73A retrospective application for a new fibre building, and GRP equipment enclosures.”

“The applicant seeks planning permission for the installation of a bin store, landscaping and associated development. The applicant also seeks retrospective planning permission for a new fibre building and ‘glass reinforced plastic’ (GRP) equipment enclosures.”

“The application sites are located within Chesterford Research Park, which lies to the east of Little Chesterford. The site comprises of a range of buildings for research and development purposes, as well as associated ancillary buildings and infrastructure. The application sites are split into four parcels of land.”

“The Chesterford Research Park is located within the countryside, with few residential dwellings in the vicinity. Bassingbourne Wood is located to the north of the Research Park.”

“Reference Proposal Decision UTT/21/2846/FUL The construction of a Green Energy Hub for the Chesterford Research Park comprising solar array Approved (2022)”

“The proposal is appropriate with respect to its principle and design and appearance. The proposal would not result in detrimental harm to the amenities enjoyed by residential dwellings, to access and parking or to ecology.”

“The proposal has been assessed against the relevant policies contained within the Development Plan, relevant legislation and the National Planning Policy Framework. The Officer concludes that the proposal complies and is in accordance with these policies and guidance. As such, the proposal is recommended for approval subject to conditions.”

“The Environmental Health Officer reported that they did not anticipate any significant environmental health or public health impacts associated with the proposed development, as the size, scale and location of the proposal means that any noise impact is likely to be minimal.”

“The Landscape Officer reported that while the felling of trees (as proposed) should generally be avoided, the impacts are limited and acceptable. The Landscape Officer highlighted the positive outcome from the Design and Access Statement that replacement trees will be planted.”

“Two site notices were displayed on site and 68 notifications letters were sent to nearby properties, including one set of re-consultations following the establishment that the proposal is part-retrospective. At the time of writing this report, no representations have been received.”

“In response to questions from Members, officers confirmed that other bins contained equipment that was not seen as having a significant impact on residential amenities.”

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

“RESOLVED that the Strategic Director of Planning be authorised to grant permission for the development subject to those items set out in section 17 of the report- A) Conditions.”