Issue - meetings

The Committee considered an application for the erection of 3x two storey dwellings with accommodation in the roof space following demolition of the existing mixed-use units.

Following a question regarding distance between the existing dwelling and the proposed dwelling, the Planning Officer confirmed it was a distance of approximately 4m. There were no windows overlooking; it was acknowledged in the report that there was a close relationship, which could be softened with conditions.

Councillor T Aziz, Ward Councillor, had called this application before the committee. He commented that although this was a flood area, there had been no flooding on Eve Road for hundreds of years and the issue was in regard to flash flooding. He added that the applicant had offered an expensive solution to address any flooding issues, but he felt there had been a lack of communication between the Flood Risk Officer and the applicant. Councillor T Aziz proposed, and it was duly seconded by Councillor A Boote, that the application be deferred so that further discussion could take place between the applicant and the Flood Risk Officer.

Some Members thought that the proposed building would be an improvement to the current structure. The current amenity space was concreted, and it was suggested by Members, that perhaps turning these amenity areas into proper gardens would mitigate some of the flood risk. The Planning Officer confirmed that the soft landscaping would likely increase should this application be approved, however in their opinion this soft landscaping would not be sufficient to mitigate the flood risk problem. The Planning Officer commented that although a flood risk assessment had been submitted by the application, the Council Flood Risk Officer did not consider it to be acceptable.

It was noted several Members had not seen the Flood Risk Assessment and the Chairman advised them that this could be accessed through the Planning Portal online.

In accordance with Standing Order 22.2, the Chairman deemed that a division should be taken on the motion above.  The votes for and against deferral of the application were recorded as follows.

In favour:                           Cllrs T Aziz, A Boote, G Cosnahan, S Dorsett and P Graves.

                                 TOTAL:  5

Against:                              Cllrs J Brown, S Oadesand M Whitehand.

                                 TOTAL:  3

Present but not voting:      Cllr L Morales (Chairman).

                                 TOTAL:  1

The application was therefore deferred.

RESOLVED

That the application be deferred for further discussion with the applicant to resolve the flooding issue.