Issue - meetings

The Committee agreed to consider the following two applications together.

The Committee considered an application PLAN/2022/0289 for erection of single storey side and rear extensions, and works to restore and repair listed building (Amended Plans and Description)

The Committee considered an application PLAN/2022/0290 for Listed Building Consent which sought for the erection of single storey side and rear extensions and internal and external works to restore, and repair listed building (Amended Plans and Description).

It was noted that the applications had been previously deferred so that the Committee could receive an updated Ecological Report and view the amended plan for the outbuilding. It was noted that the outbuilding had now been removed and the Ecological report had been received and there had been no objections from Surrey Wildlife Trust.

Following a question, the Planning Officer confirmed that the arboricultural issue regarding the mature trees had been addressed.

Some Members of the Committee acknowledged residents’ frustration regarding the building as it had remained empty for a long time and in its current state it attracted antisocial behaviour. Some Councillors thought the applicant had made some positive changes with the reduction in the side extension and removal of the outbuilding. Members of the Committee had been previously contacted by many residents in support of the application, however comments were made by some Councillors regarding the importance the NPPF placed on the special character of listed buildings and that this was the only house of its type left in the world.

Some members of the Committee commented that the site was likely to become more and more derelict if it was left and suggested the Local Planning Authority needed to be practical about retaining the individuality of the listed features whilst also ensuring it was useable.

Councillor T Aziz proposed, and it was duly seconded by Councillor S Dorsett that the application be approved.

Following a question, the Planning Officer advised that the application did not provide a lot of information on what features would be retained internally. This was a concern as when a building was listed, all features of that building contributed to the listing. If approved, the Chairman queried whether a condition could be added relating to the restoration of the internal features and the Planning Officer confirmed that this was possible. Mr T James commented that there was a very detailed description and some photos of the internal features, so it would be possible to control from this aspect. The Committee agreed that if the application was approved a condition should be carefully worded to state that the internal features needed to be reinstated to a level that was reasonable. Members were keen to do everything possible to preserve the listed features of the building but in a sensible and useable manner for the applicant.

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 approval of the application were recorded as follows.

In favour:  ...  view the full minutes text for item 6