Shared cycle and footpath at Land north of Doniford Stream and west of Doniford Road, Williton

What was proposed

The application proposed a four-metre shared pedestrian and cycle path with drainage, signage, enclosure and agricultural access.

“This plan shows the alignment of the cycle path which is in two distinct parts: First section: the western tranche (including insets 3 and 4) runs east to west from North Road to Doniford Road, in parallel with a brook that lies to the north of Danesfield School and St Peter’s Church of England First School.”

“The most northerly point of the eastern parcel, where the proposed cycle path connects to Doniford Road is where the cycle path starts/ends. A grass verge is proposed either side of the proposed cycle path along its entirety. There is associated drainage design, warning signage, means of enclosure and access to the agricultural land to provide continuation of farming activities.”

Officer report

Earlier planning history

An outline permission for housing, flexible uses, open space and cycleways required a full application for the Steam Coast Trail works.

“Background, Proposed development, site and surroundings 4.1 Outline planning permission (LPA ref: 3/39/20/003) was granted in February 2024 for the erection of up to 350 dwellings (comprising a mix of dwelling sizes and types and affordable housing), approximately 1,000sqm of flexible uses within use class E (limited to offices, R&D and light industrial), vehicle access, public open space, sports and recreational facilities, footpaths, cycle ways, enhancements to the…”

“3/39/20/003 Outline application (with all matters reserved) for the erection of up to 350 dwellings (comprising a mix of dwelling sizes and types and affordable housing), approximately 1,000sqm of flexible uses within Use class E (limited to offices, R&D and light industrial), vehicle access, public open space, sports and recreational facilities, footpaths, cycle ways, enhancements to the Barrows scheduled monument including information boards, landscaping and associated…”

Officer report

Why officers recommended approval

Officers considered the proposal policy-compliant, beneficial to the community and safer for cyclists, subject to conditions.

“It is recommended that the application is granted subject to conditions.”

“Executive Summary of key reasons for recommendation 2.1 The proposal is considered to comply with policy, and the S106 requirements set out in the outline permission 3/39/20/003, the proposals will provide community benefit and increase in highway safety for those travelling by cycle.”

Officer report

Consultation responses

Highways, trees, the Environment Agency, ecology and rights of way consultees raised no objections subject to conditions or procedural requirements.

“Highways Development Control No objections, recommends the following conditions: • No development until further information • No obstruction to visibility • Provision shall be made for the disposal of surface water • CEMP Conditions added Tree Officer No objection to proposals, so long as the works are carried out carefully in strict accordance with the submitted Arboricultural Method Statement (which includes the requirement for regular arboricultural supervision) and Tree…”

“SCC - Ecologist No objections to the proposal subject to conditions. • Biodiversity Net Gain Plan • Habitat Management and monitoring plan (HMPP) • Lighting • Retained hedgerows Informative: BNG Conditions and informatives added…”

Officer report

Who spoke

Two objectors, a parish councillor and the applicant’s representative addressed the committee.

Members’ discussion

Members discussed route improvements, agricultural access, adoption, school links, an alternative path, the diversion order and construction timing.

“Councillors were invited to discuss the application, and the following points were raised and discussed: • Councillors were pleased to note the improvement of the route. • Councillors asked for clarification on whether the officers are satisfied that the famers plots can be accessed. The Planning Officer confirmed that all access to the gates will be as they are now. • Councillors asked whether the cycleway and footway through the Allen Meadow Drive estate are adopted.”

“The Lead Officer confirmed that this was a rights of way remit and not one of the Planning Committee • Councillors queried whether the work that is happening on the footpath will be fitted about the agricultural year. The Planning Officer confirmed that this would be tied into condition 6 the construction conduction.”

Minutes

The vote

Councillor Coles proposed approval, Councillor O’Donnell seconded it, and the vote was unanimous.

“Following the debate, Councillor Coles proposed that the application be approved as per officer recommendation. This was seconded by Councillor O’Donnell.”

“Having been duly proposed and seconded the Planning Committee resolved that the Planning Application be GRANTED planning permission in line with the officer recommendation.”

Minutes

The committee’s decision

Planning permission was granted in line with the officer recommendation.

“That the Planning Committee resolved that the Planning Application be granted planning permission in line with the officer recommendation.”

Minutes